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Good Times and Ecstasy

Good Times and Ecstasy

Date: 2013-06-27
Our common purpose in life is the quest for happiness; good times, pleasure, ecstasy, bliss!

Yes we want it all, who doesn't?

Before we go running at it with full speed it is worth hearing some advice from the ancients that tell us that there are a couple of prerequisites. First a dependable, anchored mind. Second, inner peace and satisfaction. When these conditions are met, and only then, can we start thinking of acquiring happiness.

"One who is not connected with the Supreme can have neither transcendental intelligence nor a steady mind, without which there is no possibility of peace. And how can there be any happiness without peace? (Bg. 2.66).

Our modern social system is one where we are constantly bombarded with messages that there are so many things we "need" that will make us happy. We chase from one aspiration to the next and find the goal posts are always moving. The promise of fulfillment and satisfaction remains an illusory concept that keeps us ever frustrated and, not surprisingly, wanting more. Like one famous millionaire of the 80's when asked to sum up his philosophy on life replied - more.

Bhagavad Gita advises us that instead of looking for satisfaction in the external objects of sensual pleasure our cherished goal of happiness is to be found when we are not dictated to by those desires. Further when material desires are not met they actually generate anger and frustration. "Before giving up this present body, if one is able to tolerate the urges of the material senses and check the force of desire and anger, he is well situated and is happy in this world." (BG 5.23)