Living in Freedom

Pleasure simply cannot last.  Kiss the joy as it flies.  Don’t grab it.  Let it go.  Pleasure comes and goes.  When it goes don’t cling to memories of past happiness or dwell on when it come again. 

If you are rigid in one thing you are going to be rigid everywhere else.  Rigidity is a habit of mind. 

Problems arise because it is easy to confuse likes and dislikes with what is right or wrong.  What we like is confused with what is best for everyone.  The difference is really between, what is pleasant and what is of lasting benefit.  Pleasure is fleeting and real benefit lasts.  Sometimes they coincide.

Scrutinize the credentials of the experience that promises to please us and ask : what are the long term effects of this experience ? What are the costs not just in rupees, but in calories, security, relationships or self esteem? 

If an experience calms your mind, slow you down, makes you more likely to compassionate and kind that experience is beneficial.  You can enjoy it.  If it agitates your mind speeds you up, excite your senses, and make you angry or resentful.  It is not beneficial.  You should avoid it. 

Training the senses does not mean denying them or depriving them.  It means educating them not to demand things that will cost us in health, security or freedom.  The senses should act as the minds office staff.  Mind is the boss.  Enjoy what is beneficial and ignore indulgence we will regret afterwards.

Term your back to temptation. Most of the temptations do not come in titanic proportions; usually they are little, little trifles.  The real challenges are to resist puny craving that nibbles us like mice.