The Paradox of Desire

MIND, WELLNESS

Gaining Perspective Through Meditation

One of the most common experiences among those who practice meditation is the gradual dissolution of a mental web that often obscures our vision. This subtle veil, imperceptible yet pervasive, consists of our ego's defensive layers, constructed from abstract concepts and constructs aimed at shielding us from the external world.

This web essentially encapsulates the activities and interactions that constitute our mental life. What remains once this fog of perception lifts? It reveals what some may call the "absolute truth." However, it's important to recognize that this truth, as you may already understand, is inherently relative. What holds true for one person might be the complete opposite for another—a complex and nuanced subject deserving of its own discussion.

The Unvarnished Reality

When you find yourself in the stillness of meditation, with thoughts and distractions dissipating, all that remains is your own truth, whatever it may be. Whether it endures for mere moments or becomes a potent tool through consistent practice, this truth offers a unique perspective and cultivates self-awareness.

Meditation, in all its wonder and, at times, intimidating aspects, has the power to bring fulfillment and a profound sense of completeness. Through mindfulness, we ascend to higher levels of self-awareness. It's worth noting that our subconscious mind exerts influence over our habits and behaviors roughly 90% of the time, while our conscious and logical faculties govern the remaining 10%.

Judgments, Preferences, and Ideas

It's a peculiar sensation to look back and realize that certain habits have lost their relevance, no longer serving our needs or the pursuit of a fulfilling life. Recognizing that we may be ensnared in a life governed by fears and inactions can be a bewildering revelation. We often find ourselves trapped in a dopamine-driven cycle, incessantly craving the next desire, and the next, and so on.

In the frenzied race through the tunnel of existence known as life, our senses are often paralyzed, diverted, and entangled in conforming to societal norms. This conformity has a numbing effect, leading us to adopt subjective notions that don't necessarily belong to us. These notions are based on the preferences and judgments of others, individuals with distinct agendas from our own. These sources can range from family, friends, partners, the education system, to personal life experiences along the way.

Polarizing Perspectives

These subjective ideas wield control over our lives, from the moment we wake up in the morning until we retire at night. We absorb these beliefs without critical examination, treating them as unquestionable truths. Whether ingrained in us since birth or acquired as we mature, they become deeply embedded in our psyche, potentially culminating in a spiral of identity conflict.

It is only in adulthood, with a conscious mind, that we can begin to acknowledge this phenomenon. Consider, for instance, our daily sugar intake or the advantages of incorporating physical exercise into our routines. Objectively, we comprehend what is beneficial or detrimental to our health. Yet, whether we choose to act upon this knowledge varies from person to person, leading to differing outcomes in our overall well-being.

Curb your ego, sticker art by Orkun Azap

Asking the Right Questions

In our journey through life, it's crucial to pause and engage in self-reflection. Without this critical self-assessment, we risk becoming unwitting subjects to a subjective reality imposed upon us by external influences. It's akin to feeling as though an external force has taken control of our lives. As humans, we often overlook objective truths about ourselves when they don't align with our preconceived notions, rarely taking the time to question why we do what we do.

Consider, for example, the ease with which we declare ourselves as non-athletic individuals without ever attempting various activities that might suit us. We might claim, "I've never been into sports," or lay blame on a lack of time, which is more convenient for our ego than adding another commitment to an already hectic schedule. Addictions often receive the same treatment.

Perception Shapes Reality

Prioritizing healthy habits over detrimental ones and managing time efficiently is largely a matter of perception. There will always be just 24 hours in a day, and the weight of our decisions lies in choosing between what we deem good or bad, a relative concept. What's good for one may not be so for another. Yet, we have the power to define our own "good."

Self-awareness plays a pivotal role in allowing us to candidly assess if our current path aligns with our true desires in life. It reveals what truly matters, both in the present and in the long term. The relentless race many of us find ourselves in today stems from a Western philosophy that operates under the false assumption that we are never content with what we have. This restlessness persists until we attain our next desire.

The Dopamine Loop

It's essential to recognize that our pursuit of pleasure, driven by the neurotransmitter dopamine, often centers not on the acquisition of the next thing or experience but on the anticipation of it. The powerful impulse of desire propels us into action, influencing every minute of our lives. We often chase fleeting pleasures that provide short-term rewards at the expense of long-term benefits.

The Essence of Life

Life need not be this complex. True contentment can be found in simplicity, in appreciating life's inherent beauty. A simple smile, a sunrise, or a leisurely stroll in the park can offer the same neural benefits as artificial sources of dopamine, such as social media or addictions. These natural sources provide longer-lasting fulfillment.

Without internal introspection and self-awareness, we miss the opportunity to question why we do what we do. By quieting the ego, even for just a few minutes a day, we gain perspective and come to realize the beauty of life, even in its most challenging moments.

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