The Roots of Suffering: Understanding and Overcoming Human Ego and Misery
Do we make people endure so much? While nature's creatures must contend with survival challenges, human civilization often exacerbates these issues by imposing ego-driven conflicts and suffering. This article explores the origins of our suffering, the detrimental effects of egoism, and offers a pathway toward addressing these issues.
The Necessities of Nature
Consider the lives of creatures in the natural world. Inherently, they engage in essential tasks such as finding food, protecting their young, and fighting for survival. For humans, this reality can sometimes seem paradoxical. However, this is the foundation of the system. If humans were ever eradicated, nature would continue, as all the beings that live according to nature's rules would thrive.
Egoism and Superiority
The human propensity for selfishness and ego can easily cloud our judgment. We often believe ourselves to be superior to others and use this perception to maintain a hierarchical structure. This involves tearing down others and resorting to force, verbal abuse, and physical aggression to curb their growth. As starkly articulated by Shakti Mehta, “While most of them exercise their choice, for some it is a compulsion to lead a miserable life.
The Consequences of Self-Discomfort
Misery can be both a choice and a compulsion, stemming from a profound lack of self-awareness. When individuals succumb to discomfort, ‘they’ become an object of pride. Conversely, when one is not miserable, they possess the capability to think and act for the betterment of others. Misery often arises from a failure to understand oneself. Many avoid introspection because it forces them to confront past transgressions and the consequences of their actions.
The Power of Self-Acceptance
To break free from misery, one must accept and embrace themselves for who they are. This requires the courage to delve deep within oneself and understand one's strengths and weaknesses. This introspection allows for true self-awareness, a vital step toward overcoming ego and misery.
The Formation of Human Behavior
It is important to recognize that human behavior is shaped through our surroundings, experiences, and the guidance we receive. As Every habit inside us is a product of what we feed in our mind, the thoughts and actions we immerse ourselves in contribute significantly to how we behave. If we consistently engage with and reflect upon rich, positive mindsets, we can gradually shift our paradigms.
The Role of Unity and Empathy
Historically, people had intimate and communal bonds, sharing resources and supporting one another through thick and thin. However, with the advent of individualism, the concept of "every man for himself" has become the prevailing norm. The only true sharing now is among the elderly, who have retained the manners and decency to assist those in need.
This article serves as a call to introspection and action, urging readers to recognize their true selves, embrace unity, and abolish the insidious effects of ego and misery.