Life Would Be So Much Simpler!

 

If we were to live the life of monk or nun, for example, renouncing all material possessions and many comforts, it might be a simpler matter to ‘not be greedy’. We would have made that decision, and have less temptations, and more ‘space’ for spiritual pursuits. However, 99% of us do not live in that state: we live full-on in a consumer-driven, materialistic, rich world where we have too much stuff. I’m reminded of this every time I travel with my husband – he can get by with a carry-on; I need a checked bag for all my ‘stuff’.

The fifth Yama is APARIGRAHA: Being in a state where one is not greedy or possessive, out of jealousy. To live life simply and honestly, without striving for more or being influenced to crave more by media and consumerism and not needing to acquire to substantiate your life. This is a challenging ideal, for at the foundation of greed is a misguided sense of self worth. If all were taken away, we would be able to face ourselves and be with ourselves, content and peaceful.

“What if we could trust life like we trust the breath? What if we could take in all the nourishment of the moment and then let it go fully, trusting that more nourishment will come? APARIGRAHA invites us to let go and to pack lightly for our journey through life, all the while caring deeply and enjoying fully.” Deborah Adele

This is the fifth post on the YAMA, would love your comments on how the 5 tenets have resonated with you, and ideas on how you see them in your life! Next up: NIYAMA.