Quote:
Originally Posted by JHL 
In conclusion, once again, my whole irritation with this topic stems from a projection of my own frustrated efforts to curb my own lust for materialism and to get myself to focus on more meaningful things. I'm arguing here not because I feel "holier-than-thou" as one poster would have it, rather the reverse is true. Through this discussion the only person I am trying to win over, is myself.
|
I know what that feeling is like. I felt this when I was pursuing Hinduism and also Rastafarianism as spiritual practices. What I found was self loathing instead. I found like I was forever going to be a slave to not being good enough for these God images that these religions created. Should I give up my family and let my hair grow and forsake new clothes and keep on sleeping on the floor. Apparently, desire is linked to what keeps us from achieving Nirvana. So, we would spend our days craving for freedom from craving.
Now, don't get me wrong, I feel like if it works for some people and they feel good about leaving their families to pursue God (as if God does not exist in their families) by all means go on. Also, if you are content to live in poverty then I believe you should share with the forum what beauty you find in scavenging, because maybe that is what my problem is. HA HA HA...
Honestly, I do feel what you might be going through and I sense that you want to feel free from your attatchments or materialism. Well, first of all, according to the law of attraction, which is going on whether you like it or not, you are attracting more of the same thought process just by focusing on your disdain for materialism... swallow that.....
Now, consider this...
"Material" means by definition.. "Of, relating to, or composed of matter. "
That would mean everything, including yourself, ourselves, food, the keyboard, the energy matter that exists in the interaction between those of us on this forum.
"Materialism" means by definition.. "The theory or attitude that physical well-being and worldly possessions constitute the greatest good and highest value in life. "
Let's consider that according to the definition of "matter", that materialism should encompass the full essence of all that is matter.
So maybe more accurately the definition would be.. "The theory or attitude that whole and complete well being of the self and all it's senses internally and externally expressive constitute the greatest good and highest value in life."
"Emancipate yourselves from mental slavery. None but ourselves can free our minds." - Haile Selassie I, Emperor of Ethiopia
You are free to desire a nice car as long as you don't desire to run someone over with it.
Just as you get that dependable car you have been wanting (after you stop hating yourself for wanting it), you may have the opportunity to help someone else by taking them grocery shopping every Sunday or something.
I challenge you to take one day and enjoy wanting what you want to the utmost. A new pair of jogging shoes. A significant other with a great smile. An opportunity to make a group of people laugh. A day at a waterpark with the kids from your neighborhood, your treat. A large enough house to invite your aging mom to stay with you. These are ALL "materialistic" things that "matter" to you. So, have fun with your day of freedom. And while your at it.... I'll be creating a million dollar idea that will help millions... Create yourself as a wonderful person and whatever you create will be for the good of all around.
Mahalo
A note to JHL, please tell me what is your hobby, gift, talent or what you absolutely enjoy doing... I am curious.