Spiritual Materialism

[Tariki]

I was just musing on the thought of "abundance"........of where the "abundance" lies? In all that is there to be enjoyed, or in those that are here to "enjoy" it? Such an infinite variety of human beings. Some living lives of great simplicity..........poverty. Some tasting every joy!

And of the words of the Christian mystic Meister Eckhart...."They can truly enjoy the feast who would just as willingly fast"

[seattlegal]

bumpity-bump-bump.

[earl]

Netscape Search Chogyam Trungpa, (Tibetan Buddhist), originated the term spiritual materialism and his explanation about such can be found in this link. Much of Derek's postings to this thread related to Jodoshinshu and he sparked my interest in learning more about it. I went on quite a study binge regarding it later. I miss you Derek. earl

[Snoopy]

Originally Posted by earl

I miss you Derek. earl

ditto.

I think he's no longer interested in trading posts (pun intended), but pops back occasionally...

s.

[Paladin]

Trungpa's book is a must read for anyone interested in taking their understanding further.

[China Cat Sunflower]

Kinda takes the fun out of it doesn't it? I mean, if there are no levels to achieve, no heroic identity idols to dress, nothing to perfect, and no hope (gasp!), what's left? I'm struggling with this as well. What is my natural estate? How can I ever live that when I have to participate in the meaningless meaning of the social rigmarole of other people's expectations?

Chris

[Paladin]

Originally Posted by China Cat Sunflower

Kinda takes the fun out of it doesn't it? I mean, if there are no levels to achieve, no heroic identity idols to dress, nothing to perfect, and no hope (gasp!), what's left? I'm struggling with this as well. What is my natural estate? How can I ever live that when I have to participate in the meaningless meaning of the social rigmarole of other people's expectations?

Chris

I dunno Chris, I'm having fun goofing around with life. Maybe because I think it's all just make believe after all, so why not just relax and have fun with it?

[Tao_Equus]

Originally Posted by China Cat Sunflower

Kinda takes the fun out of it doesn't it? I mean, if there are no levels to achieve, no heroic identity idols to dress, nothing to perfect, and no hope (gasp!), what's left? I'm struggling with this as well. What is my natural estate? How can I ever live that when I have to participate in the meaningless meaning of the social rigmarole of other people's expectations?

Chris

Oh dear that is pretty deep stuff. I have solved it by living alone.

[China Cat Sunflower]

Originally Posted by Paladin

I dunno Chris, I'm having fun goofing around with life. Maybe because I think it's all just make believe after all, so why not just relax and have fun with it?

I think you're right Mark. It should be like child's play. Play for the sake of play, not play to win and make another lose. Infinite play...I like that! I think I can do that!

On aesthetic versus ascetic poverty... I find that minimalism can be quite enjoyable on a number of levels. The luxury of uncluttered space is cathartic, for example. There is great freedom in having few things.

Chris