Just as seasons transition from summer to monsoon, and winter arrives unasked, our emotions also undergo constant change. In fact, our feelings fluctuate daily, often shifting multiple times within a single day. Consider asking any mother if she loves her child, and she will likely affirm this without hesitation. However, if you inquire whether she is always “happy” with her child, you will discover a range of different emotions that she experiences in relation to her offspring. These emotions may include frustration, anger, restlessness, as well as moments of happiness. Life is a tapestry woven with diverse emotions, and to lead fulfilling lives, we must find peace within ourselves and embrace the many waves of emotional states that rise and fall within our inner world.
It is essential to cultivate a healthy Heart Space where we can find inner anchorage. This state of shelter allows us to navigate through life’s vicissitudes with greater depth. In a world that promises instant gratification, accepting setbacks is often unpopular. Rather than tolerating the inevitable ups and downs of life, many of us prefer to quickly change external circumstances and relationships.
Nonetheless, does this constant pursuit of new situations guarantee happiness? We convince ourselves that happiness is just around the corner or persuade ourselves that life is inherently unpredictable. This is not necessarily tolerance or wisdom; it may merely reflect frustrated resignation or a denial of suffering. It’s our actions that speak volumes—many seek temporary relief to soothe their bruised egos and minds, with more instant gratification. So, they continue an endless struggle, a game they can never win.
It’s akin to being forced into a boxing ring and repeatedly beaten by a stronger opponent. You may desire to quit the game, but leaving the ring is not an option, and winning seems unattainable. For eternal strugglers, life becomes a game they can’t win and can’t quit playing!
Case Study from History – living in the Sense gratification and Struggle House
At the tender age of eleven, Babur ascended to the throne of Fergana Valley, located in present-day Uzbekistan. However, his true passions resided in the realms of poetry, art, music, and gardening. Despite his inclination towards these peaceful pursuits that was his Shelter House (his Home State), Babur found himself drawn to the notorious legacies of his ancestors. His father’s lineage traced back to the fearsome Timur, while his mother’s ancestry linked him to the dreaded Genghis Khan. Though it was not his natural calling, Babur decided to follow in their footsteps, influenced by the reputation these conquerors had garnered for their brutalities and merciless massacres of innocent civilians. Consequently, young and impressionable as he was, Babur nurtured similar ambitions.
Filled with desires, Babur’s heart yearned to conquer Samarkand, the birthplace of Timur, and thus, he embarked on his journey to seek power. After a tremendous struggle, at the age of fifteen, Babur managed to seize control of Samarkand, but his triumph was short-lived, as he lost it within a few months. Meanwhile, in his absence, his brother seized power in their native Fergana Valley, leaving Babur without a kingdom. Despite numerous attempts to reclaim Samarkand, Babur faced constant failures, and his obsession with regaining the city grew.
To be continued…
