Simplify for a Life of Peace

                                           SIMPLIFY FOR A LIFE OF PEACE

                                               Sage Ashtavakra speaks for today 

                                                May 2014

It’s always been the pursuit of happiness, whether as a quest for power, wealth, love etc; it all comes down to what I must do to be happy. When I appreciate that happiness is not something I need to thirst after, it’s my natural state of being, it will always be my state of Being once I claim it for myself. These notes are not on whether I am the happiness or not. That debate is unnecessary since it is so whether I accept or reject.

Than what is it for, that I toil from morning to morning, without rest or respite like a beast of burden? Why do I ignore the colours of the seasons, the fragrances from the earth after a sharp shower, the sounds of the koel or even just the sharp rays of the life giving sun? Alright I could accept that I am always the Happiness, the Bliss but surely it must at least bring me some peace, tranquillity. How can I get the equipoise, keep the inner balance irrespective of the constant upheavals that I am confronted by every day? 

Rishi Ashtavakra, preceptor of King Janaka discusses these very questions in his challenging dialogue with the monarch that is relevant even today. After my teacher shared the understanding of the slokas I conclude that it is only by simplification can one live with constancy. 

Rishi Ashtavakra or a wise master will first ask the questioner to gain some physical composure as it is futile to discuss with a tumultuous mind. First the Rishi dismisses the seekers query on how to obtain liberation by thundering, ‘in seeking liberation lies the bondage.’ Then he explains the organisation of our natural state of bliss, immortality, for when we speak of one the infinite is implied for all times and not subject to cancellation, loss or change.

After lengthy discussions on happiness, the Rishi addresses the subject of an individual’s tranquillity. His suggestion is to simplify desires while the ego and individuality like to escalate and build up desires.

Ashtavakra states in his discussion with Janaka, “pratyaksam apyavastutvad viswam nastyamale tvayi.” The universe even though visible, because it is unreal, does nor exist in You, who are Pure. Moreover the Rishi continues, You are Perfect, “purna”                                               

and therefore “samam”, in equipoise whether subject to pain or pleasure, hope disappointment etc. This is not to deny pain or comfort both physical attributes but to not allow oneself to suffer or rejoice thinking I am suffering, rejoicing.

When I think am the body, remember behind the body are the “bhuta matran” the five great elements that make up the creation. When my individuality asserts it is because multiplicity, duplicity and ignorance are at play behind the scenes. When I say “aham” then I am aligning and claiming the Truth, Consciousness, all Pervasive Self, Brahman, or as a part of the macrocosm universe, Isvara. I do not stand apart.

Ashtavakra declares, “aho cinmatram eva aham”, O! Marvellous! I am really Pure Consciousness.  Claim this dear seeker, he urges and discover the tranquillity that you will have.

How?

The ego is powered and propelled by its own steam of desires which appear to fall into a bottomless pit. If we do not accept that our inherent nature is Bliss, full and complete, then as desires get appeased new ones or the clamour for more arises. The ego is insatiable and perpetually hungry. If on the other hand I do accept I am fulfilled “purna” then there is nothing more to fill. Now my desire is converted into creative energy, productivity. Contented I strive, no fear of loss or gain and therefore at peace.

I am playing the game, not suckered into the game.

The Rishi also states, “tvam ekascetanah suddho” You are the one of Pure Intellegence, my son, “dhanyasya loka cestava lokanat”, blessed is the one who observes the ways of others. In his teaching my Master points out “remember whatever your dream is today, is already another’s reality.”

Employ the intellect and observe the countless experiences we have on the capricious

nature of life. Look around; the high fashion store that opened a few years ago is gone. A sign now reads above the door, “Budget Furniture Showroom to Open Soon.” There is a news report that a millionaire was discovered living on a footpath, all wealth gone! In yet another instance, a famous sportsperson dies of starvation in a tiny tenement. Fame changes to anonymity as the medals are converted to currency. A big style wedding today is already yesterdays’ news. One scientist racing to prepare for publication is piped by another by mere weeks. So what is that unique position that we strive for? None.  

With the certitude that I am the bliss, I can choose to simplify my desires and handle them like a window shopper or a sightseer. I do not choose to engage in ownership or action, just appreciate the desire and let it pass. As a window shopper, I admire the objects, the style, presentation and colour. If something attracts my attention, I may venture into the store for a closer look. At no stage do I feel a motive to purchase; I wish I could buy this. No, I look at it like a creative expression, appreciate and pass on. Next week I know the display and merchandise will change and new displays will come up. Similarly, as a sightseer I look at nature, historical sights, imposing architecture. Do I want to possess any of these? Do I wish to take up my residence in this new landscape? No, I merely enjoy the sights and then continue my travel to finally return home. Desire and subsequent action can be similarly handled.   

Of course it requires a great deal of self assurance born from commitment to the Truth of who I am, to remain unaffected and accept “ yatha prapta varti arapouyat  siddhim”, contented with what comes my way unasked and not hanker for what I do not have. I may appear to be a loser a non achiever but it makes no difference. The serenity that I enjoy is something that no one will ever understand unless they too are aware of their own nature. Living simply tuned to my nature and to the vast expanse of nature which I have no desire to exploit or fiddle with for my benefit, who can gauge the wealth of success and freedom. To walk away from engaging am I a coward

or ….? Anyone can take up this idea and discover the release from exercising choice not self coercion, discrimination and not mindless experiencing.

Simplification of my desires is my choice and how I choose to handle is my motive that I alone shall know. But once I confirm that I am the Perfect, the Contentment   , whichever way I choose to express my desire, Serenity and Peace will be mine. This is the test. If fulfilling the desire leaves one empty and searching, then I am                   continuing to look for happiness driven by my ego. I am playful about my desire, like a window shopper or working like an achiever, either way I am the Serenity. Simplification is enrichment.