All Things But None

"What do you want to do in life?" While we were on one of our nightly walks this past week, Alec's been asking me that on numerous days because I've yet to give him a straight answer. I thought about it on and off for a couple of days then I finally said something. I did say that if he wasn't in my life, I would probably be doing charity work, volunteer work, or something similar. I remember a long time ago I volunteered in the NOLP program at Aids Project Los Angeles, it was one of the best experiences I've ever had. If you've ever had the chance to volunteer or to help someone or a community, then you know the feeling. The experience is insurmountable.

Alec also mentioned that if he wasn't in my life, wouldn't I want to run out and join the monastery? No, but I would most definitely live a life more simple. I wouldn't buy a house to begin with, I would have changed my current job/profession, and I would live an even MORE a quieter life.

Not that I'm not happy at the moment. Life is good. My life is very good. I have enough to eat and Alec is a very genuine, loving partner. But life doesn't stop once you find a partner. Does it? I believe there are certain things that you learn and experience with your partner [and people in general], and other times there are experiences that you can only learn from yourself - coming from within. There just seems to be so much more.....

I'll talk more about it another time. What would you like to do in life?

Everyone in the world is in pursuit of some form of happiness. Some people believe money brings happiness, but money can also bring about abundant suffering and pain. As the Chinese saying goes, “People die for money,” just as robbers will often kill for money. During China’s Cultural Revolution, most of those who were persecuted were wealthy people. Sometimes, the suffering the wealthy endure is far worse than that of the poor.

Then, there are people who believe that love is the source of happiness. Love is beautiful, but love can bring even more suffering. Many tragedies in this world have resulted from people being unable to conquer the hurdle of love. Many have been troubled by love and ruined their careers and reputations as a result. Worse yet, some have killed themselves because of love.

Others believe that fame can enhance happiness, for they believe that those who are famous have the ability to achieve their ambitions. However, many people in high positions often fail to benefit the populace and are only concerned with their own status. In the process, they lose the support of the public and sometimes even of themselves. There are also some people who think they can find happiness in academic studies. But, for most, the deeper their studies, the worse their attachments and discriminations become, giving rise to problems in thought. Instead of resulting in happiness, then, studies can become a dead end.

So, where can we find this happiness we all pursue? First, we must realize that happiness is in our hearts. The contentment, tolerance, wisdom, and faith in our hearts are the fountains of happiness inside us. Second, happiness lies in genuine affection and honor. Treating others with sincerity and integrity brings happiness. Third, happiness exists in friendships between the self and others. Nobody can live without friends for friendship provides support and good will throughout our lives. Fourth, happiness is in liberation. For, if we can see through the phenomena of the world, and be liberated from troubles and suffering, then happiness can be realized.

Money does not equal unhappiness; as long as we know how to make good use of it and do not let ourselves become enslaved by it, then money can bring happiness. Similarly, love can also bring happiness; but love needs to be pure and sublime and not selfish or tainted. Social status can also be a source of happiness, if its accomplishments are shared, thus benefiting both the self and others.

We should not only pursue the sensual pleasures of life: seeing beautiful things, hearing wonderful sounds, smelling fragrant scents, tasting delicious food, and feeling physical comforts. Such sensory happiness is only momentary and unrealistic. We should instead pursue the joy of non-attachment, meaning that we will not allow ourselves to become attached to the five senses. We should cultivate our bodhi mind without attachment to achieve true happiness. It is only when we have the truth and Dharma joy in our hearts, and discover the treasure that lies inside within us, that we are able to attain lasting happiness.

Text: Venerable Master Hsing Yun

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Everything we ever wanted is all so near, yet contentment emanates only from our very hearts. Methinks.

Have a wonderful weekend everyone! I love you!