Note: This is the 5th reflection in a series inspired by Self-Unfoldment by Swami Chinmayananda.
All of our actions are motivated by two impulses: the revulsion to sorrow and the yearning for joy. Every goal or milestone we set, whether as individuals or as a community, ultimately aims to boost our happiness and alleviate sadness in our lives.
Despite our relentless pursuit of happiness through material possessions and societal achievements, we often find ourselves feeling dissatisfied and restless. We naturally gravitate towards what brings us joy and tend to avoid what does not. With our surroundings and environment in constant flux, we often struggle to keep up. While we may experience some temporary success, we inevitably return to a state of discontent.
Despite the best efforts of governments, economists, and scientists, it remains a challenge to create environments brimming with joy. Our innate longing for happiness often feels out of reach. The shifting nature of the world around us and the ever-changing dynamics of our diverse personalities make it hard to find a one-size-fits-all formula for lasting happiness. Because of this, sorrow, poverty, and discomfort continue to exist, and we see the impact in events like wars and revolutions.
Self-Unfoldment #6: The Joy of Living – Reflections Along The Way
Excessive indulgence and sensory obsessions may provide fleeting pleasure but do not lead to lasting fulfillment. Even those who are materially wealthy and accomplished frequently experience anxiety and tension. At both individual and community levels, the quest for happiness remains a common goal. Therefore, it is crucial to understand where true happiness resides to channel our efforts toward a more meaningful pursuit of joy.
If joy truly resided in material possessions, everyone would derive the same level of happiness from them. We must break free from the chains of materialism and discover a more authentic and enriching path to joy.
Happiness is a state of mind, not a result of external circumstances. When our minds are calm and tranquil, we experience joy. Conversely, when our minds are agitated, we feel sorrow and anxiety. While temporary peace may come from contact with sensory experiences, such gratification is fleeting. This cycle continues as we seek happiness in external objects, only to find ourselves trapped in an endless loop of desires.
Every individual has the capacity to quieten their mind and find lasting peace without relying on external possessions. The ancient scriptures provide a roadmap for awakening this dormant ability within us. By focusing on higher principles, we can diminish our desires and enhance our happiness. By decreasing the number of desires entertained, we can achieve permanent happiness.
When we satisfy one desire, new ones quickly emerge, resulting in an ever-growing list of wants. For instance, purchasing a new home may lead to desires for new furniture, a deck, or other additions, creating a cycle of perpetual longing. To break free from this cycle, we must learn to direct our thoughts toward higher ideals and principles, which help us minimize the number of desires we entertain. By doing so, we can establish a state of lasting happiness that remains unaffected by the chaos of the external world.
Self-Unfoldment #7: Happiness – Reflections Along The Way
By embracing serenity without reliance on possessions, we can cultivate a sense of peace and fulfillment that transcends the temporary joys offered by material objects. The journey to unlocking lasting happiness begins with the recognition that the capacity for true joy lies within each of us, waiting to be awakened through mindful reflection. Let us embark on this journey to discover true joy beyond material success, aligning our efforts with a more meaningful and fulfilling existence.
Bluishmuse 