In the contemporary era, there is a heightened focus on religion, driven by the realization that accumulated wealth and possessions fall short in providing the anticipated, unwavering happiness and contentment. The incessant accumulation of wealth exacerbates a sense of unease, fostering a pervasive atmosphere of constant apprehension.
Acknowledging the remarkable strides in modern science and technology, including the unprecedented achievement of lunar exploration, serves as a testament to human progress. Despite venturing beyond the moon, revered by some religions as the dwelling place of their deities, and contemplating the potential utilization of lunar resources, true happiness remains elusive. The relentless pursuit of material abundance begets greed, perpetuating a cycle where accumulating wealth and resources fails to bring lasting satisfaction or joy. Material possessions, though momentarily gratifying, evoke enduring sentiments of sorrow and anxiety.
In this milieu, individuals grapple with an underlying fear, living in a state of perpetual uncertainty despite advancements in various facets of life. The quest for happiness, if solely grounded in material accumulation, proves transient and elusive, leaving individuals in a constant struggle between fleeting joy and enduring emotional unrest.
Hence, it is my conviction that the joy derived from material accumulation is inherently fleeting, and the pursuit of such accumulation often engenders fear and sorrow rather than true happiness. Conversely, the happiness cultivated through spiritual endeavors remains impervious to external factors. This spiritual joy emanates from a profound understanding, enabling us to effortlessly comprehend and navigate the anxieties and sorrows associated with material possessions. The bliss arising from spiritual pursuits is a mental experience, eternal and unparalleled. It stands as the pinnacle of human happiness, the highest form of pleasure found in the very essence of nature.
In the grand scheme, our emotional states, whether joyful or sorrowful, are not solely dictated by external circumstances. Numerous internal factors contribute to our happiness or sadness. Even when the external world presents stimuli that could evoke joy or sorrow, our response to these stimuli determines whether external events manifest as sources of happiness or sadness within us.
A mind left unchecked tends to harbor negative thoughts, paving the way for immoral actions. These unethical deeds carve unpleasant memories into our consciousness. Subsequently, when external stimuli collide with these lingering negative memories, they rekindle the sorrow associated with past misdeeds. Such instances of sadness indicate that the root cause lies in past events.
It is crucial to recognize that both happiness and sorrow emanate from within our minds. A religious framework becomes imperative in regulating a mind susceptible to such influences. It is evident that maintaining clarity and freedom from negative thoughts in one’s present life necessitates the guidance of a religious foundation.
Adapted by Dr. Shermila Milroy
Extracted from ‘An Introduction to Buddhism and Tantric Meditation -The Dalai Lama’
(Paljor Publications; H9, Jangpura Ectension, New Delhi – 110 014; India)
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