I don’t know what this person tried but if his life turned topsy turvy and hence he abandoned the pursuit then it means that he was never sincere in his effort or rather was trying to find something that would add further security and strength and value to the life of ego and desire. The question also indicates that one should find the soul for some personal benefit and advantage such as peace. Spiritual seeking doesn’t work like that.
It is not out of getting some advantage that one searches for the soul. It is instead to find truth, to discover the immortal self within since without it life, even the most comfortable life is dust and bones. One seeks the soul to find the Divine within, – to what or whose advantage? Certainly not for the ego identities that we are often so dearly attached to.
Now it is quite possible that the search for the soul may turn one’s life topsy turvy, especially if it was running on a false script authored by the seeking for pleasure and the satisfaction of desires. The soul is the vehicle of truth in us and contains within its folds the original blueprint planned out by the Divine. The closer we get to the soul, the more this original script starts getting activated thereby initially upsetting the old order as it brings into action the original plan. One can look at it as upsetting or as a resetting!
But these changes in outer circumstances and situations is anyways an ongoing process of life. Why blame the poor soul for it and condemn it without a trial? If called it might well say that your life was anyways going to turn topsy turvy for whatever reasons. I am simply supporting you from within, keeping you stable and open to the Divine Grace and Help even as you go through the rough ride.
Having said that one does find peace when one finds the soul, the peace and joy and satisfaction that are to be found nowhere under any outer conditions. The presence of the soul brings for someone rooted in it, peace in the storm, calm in the effort, silence in the noise, solitude in the crowd, a deep inner satisfaction and joy, a clarity of thought and vison, a harmony and quietude in the heart, a purpose in their life, a growth of love, devotion, faith and surrender to the Divine and so much else more that are still mere words for us.
Finally the words of a person who abandoned his search due to fear have no value. It is they who have found the soul have the authority to speak about it authentically.
Affectionately,
Alok Da
