Namaste all,
I present an interesting question for your consideration today. Please note my use of the word ''materials'' and not ''materialism'' in the title. I will attempt to explain my question as clearly as possible, feel free to ask if you do not understand.
I often wonder about the correct way of approaching materials in a modern context (i.e. current time cycle, the grihasta path, surrounded by people whose lives are largely based on accumulation, maintenance and showcasing of materials - and also the existing economic and social conditioning).
I am aware of scriptural reference/philosophy about mastering desire and the effect of materials [good and bad], and therefore I do not ask for any replies centering on those principles. I seek practical answers on how YOU personally deal with approaching materials, and what you do in various situations where you are required to indulge in materials, interact with materials, and so on.
Again I know I am susceptible to replies along the lines of [stop creating a duality between interaction with materials and correct spiritual conduct, perhaps karma yoga reccomendations, and various other manifestations of beautiful hindu philosophy]. As mentioned prior; in this particular thread I would only be interested in such philosophy if it is attached with a practical example or your personal experience.
The reason? Currently I want to understand this issue from a simple micro level, with practical solutions for the short-term. I am already on my way of attempting to resonate with and follow higher philosophy with discipline. That takes time. Who knows when it will click, or when I'll start advancing with more speed. It is working beautifully but in the meantime I need to sharpen other tools in my arsenal to fend off ''down-moments'' or moments of ''confusion/delusion'' with accuracy. I hope that makes sense.
It is currently very interesting for me, As a young man; increasingly the paradigms that present themselves in daily life baffle me. Should I feel guilty if I have more than the next person even if I'm trying my best to help? Should I strive for a bigger house, a good car, or to surround myself with materials that create comfort for my family? Even if I'm detached from them all? If I decide to pursue these am I wrong?
The above situations are particularly complex because I have my own unorthodox opinion on how the economic system has been manipulated through a false imposition of scarcity over the years. If you're interested in knowing about my opinion on that you can read it here:
http://econimind.com/how-real-is-scarcity/
If my son says dad we should get a bigger house! Just for comfort purposes, should I teach him that this is incorrect or support him? If my wife asks for a level of material comfort beyond what I feel necessary, then what?
Having a phenomenal interest in business, how do I accumulate money in a dharmic manner, how do I stay detached from it? How do I completely avoid chances of dilution into incorrect thought patterns?
These are all just example questions. I know that desires are never-ending and that there is no end to this madness or these questions.
I can answer these questions when it comes to the bigger picture, which is what we largely deal with here, I want to understand this on a more immediate level. How do you approach materials?
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