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Originally Posted by Chado2423  Now I see you understand this concept a little... the moments of what I'd rather term Ultimate happiness, than "real", are not inspired by any event or any external criteria however... instead it is a state of mind where happiness occurs inspite of the event... Both types are real in their own way. This is akin to being cheerful in a depressing situation... it also supercedes materialism, because the bliss is more internal... The type of happiness that is dependent upon circumstand or material gain is completely artificial by comparison. Not that it isn't real in a sense, but it is of a lesser degree. The wisdom that comes out of being happy in any situation anywhere is a much more powerful motive. This is the type of happiness that goes beyond materialism. It is the same happiness that goes beyond circumstance. Circumstance that brings happiness is less spiritual and comes not from one's source of power (unless they create that circumstance). There are many different types of happiness... This Supreme happiness is only glimpsed, and brough forth, but it is only attainable in the sense that it is brought out from within. In other words it is pre-existing. |
Yes, that's how I understand what people refer to as 'real' or 'ultimate' happiness. But I don't agree with the suggestion that this happiness is in any way superior to a happiness where the mind is still present. Perhaps it feels better, and perhaps it is the realisation of one's true nature. But how does that help if it's an ideal which isn't achievable?
Wouldn't it be more realistic, practical, and ultimately beneficial, to try to attain a degree of happiness which doesn't preclude the very thing which allowed us to reach our comparatively advanced state, and which allows further development (spiritual and otherwise)?