JUNQUE

If all I thought, said, and did could be summed up in words and put here that'd be pretty pathetic. I am a human being with a myriad of values, emotions, and perceptions of the world: both inner and outer. A few labels that describe my beliefs to some extent are: Absurdist, Buddhist, Pacifist, Anarchist, a Lover, avid Reader, Horror Film Buff, and Free-Thinker. Otherwise, look around, if you like then follow me; I try to make my page as eclectic as my personality and interests. Have a good life.

Buddhist Meditations: Control (One)

Day One of the Thirty Day Meditation Challenge. :)

First, I want to explore the notion of control. I am speaking of the sense of control over our lives, other’s lives, and the universe that we are normally self-deceived into believing. As a psychological survival tactic, often we tell ourselves that there is Good, Orderly Direction (aka G.O.D.) within our lives at home, school, and work, or within a relationship, or within this universe.

Now, Buddhists don’t believe in a god. At most, one could remain an agnostic and say that there is no definitive statement made by Buddha that there is no god, but the message that the Buddha carried was one where a god was not necessary to realize spiritual truths. However, I often find with Buddhists them clinging to doctrines which promote a view of Good, Orderly Direction in the universe. For instance, karma and rebirth are often concentrated on in the West. Rebirth was originally seen as something extremely undesirable; however, many Westerners are finding solace in the fact that they will be reborn instead of having an aversion to it. Often Westerners are taking a long-view of karma and think how they will ultimately benefit from good karma they produce; even thinking of the effects in their next life and finding joy in that. This is seeking control over one’s life.

Perhaps there is a Good, Orderly Direction to this universe, but a Buddhist should only admire such a direction if they find it, they should not invest hope in any G.O.D. I am not proposing that an evil, chaotic, direction-less universe is what really exists. I am proposing that all these words (good, evil, orderly, chaotic, direction, direction-less) are labels which are not innate to the universe, rather we create all these meanings to help make sense of the universe. This wanting to make sense of the universe is a desire for control. 

So, just for today, I encourage you to expand your awareness of all that is around you, expand your awareness of the labeling process, and attempt to accept the raw experience of the universe around you. Try to accept what is without naming what is. 

I recommend that you start by thinking through what I am saying and see if you agree with me. If you do, then start meditating, and once your mind is quiet, then expand your awareness to the world around you without labeling anything.

Peace, Love, Empathy,

M 

Just a table I found to give you something more to think about.