Happiness

What are we seeking as living entities all the time? When asked this question I often wonder about what the first thing or word that comes to one's mind. It could be something which has taken your fancy at the time, a gadget, money or a turnaround in health or even a wish to travel, or something to eat or drink. All these are tangible acquisitions. The other thing we seek is intangible in the form of love, acceptance, name fame and respect. However, the common thread underneath all this is is the desire to gain happiness. Then the next question to ask is how long do you wish to be happy and the obvious answer is in one word "Forever". All of us from experience know for sure that the happiness gained by acquiring something tangible lasts till it is acquired and this is immediately replaced by the next object of desire. About the intangible things one seeks, they too are temporary and ever changing according to times and environment prevalent at the time. This is the common knowledge that we all gain from our experiences in daily life. It sounds so simple and self evident, yet we get attracted to temporary attractions and like fireflies destroy ourselves in the beam of light.

Is there a real way to seek happiness of a different kind and to have it forever? I think so yes because the real happiness is linked to the joy of giving of oneself. The modern man in his ecosystem is taught to be selfish and acquire things at all times and at all costs and once the race starts to go on competing and getting more the levels of satisfaction refuse to be satiated. The gratification from indulgence for sense objects leads to attachment, which leads to desires. These lead to a lust for possession. When this is not fulfilled it leads to anger and frustration which in turn clouds our judgement which in turn prevents us from learning from the past. We lose our power to choose between the right and the wrong and lays waste our entire life.

So what is selflessness which gives us the power to give without asking in return to move and work in this world of sense objects free from attachment and aversion.Is this so difficult?? Yes and no is the answer. Yes if we think of ourselves as different and not a part of the universal consciousness and no if we believe that we are not only part but one with the universal consciousness. Our work for our children our selfless love for our parents and those whom we consider our own give us joy. But if we look around in nature examples of all who give abound starting from the sun, earth, rain, rivers, ocean, trees, plants etc. are giving without expectation. Therefore we cannot aspire for infinite joy without giving of oneself at all times in all circumstances at all places. The moment we realize this we find our purpose for existence.


Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Dr. Burjor Antia at age 90

Austerity????

Display of Emotions, Sign of Weakness or Strength?