The concept of self is fluid and everchanging from "summary" of Why Buddhism is True by Robert Wright
The idea that there is no fixed, unchanging self at the core of our being is a central tenet of Buddhism. This concept challenges our deeply ingrained belief in a permanent and unchanging self, a belief that is so deeply rooted in our minds that we rarely question it. But if we take a closer look at our own experiences, we can see that the self is actually a fluid and ever-changing entity. Our thoughts, emotions, and perceptions are constantly shifting and evolving, giving rise to a sense of self that is always in flux. We may think of ourselves as a consistent and unchanging entity, but in reality, we are a collection of ever-changing mental states and processes. This insight can be both liberating and unsettling. Liberating because it allows us to let go of the burden of trying to maintain a fixed and unchanging self, and unsettling because it challenges our deeply held beliefs about who we are. When we examine our own experiences closely, we can see that our sense of self is not a solid and enduring entity, but a dynamic and ever-changing process. Our thoughts, emotions, and perceptions are constantly shifting, giving rise to a sense of self that is always in flux. This realization can be both freeing and disconcerting. Freeing because it allows us to let go of the illusion of a fixed and unchanging self, and disconcerting because it challenges our deeply ingrained beliefs about who we are.- The self is not a fixed and unchanging entity, but a fluid and ever-changing process. This insight can help us cultivate a sense of mindfulness and self-awareness that allows us to see through the illusion of a fixed and unchanging self. By recognizing the fluid and ever-changing nature of the self, we can cultivate a sense of openness and flexibility that allows us to respond to life's challenges with greater ease and resilience. Ultimately, this understanding can lead to a deeper sense of peace and contentment in our lives.
Similar Posts
Encounter with King Bimbisara
As Siddhartha Gautama embarked on his journey to spread the teachings of enlightenment, he came upon the city of Rajagaha, rule...
Journey to America to spread teachings
In the early 1920s, my guru, Sri Yukteswar, perceived that it was time for me to carry the message of Kriya Yoga to the West. H...
Zen teachings emphasize the impermanent and everchanging nature of reality
Zen teachings point to the impermanent and ever-changing nature of reality as a fundamental aspect of existence. This emphasis ...
Strive for inner peace and contentment
The quest for inner peace and contentment is a central theme in 'The Dharma Bums'. The characters in the novel are constantly s...
Practice lovingkindness meditation
Lovingkindness meditation is a practice that involves cultivating feelings of love and compassion towards oneself and others. T...
It is a testament to the power of the human mind
This concept highlights the remarkable capabilities of the human mind, showcasing its immense power and potential. It serves as...
Spiritual seekers have journeyed across continents
Throughout history, spiritual seekers have embarked on journeys that have taken them across vast continents in search of enligh...
The significance of selfless service
Selfless service, or "karma yoga" as it is known in the Bhagavad Gita, holds a profound significance in the realm of spiritual ...
Cultivating wisdom and compassion leads to enlightenment
The Buddha taught that cultivating wisdom and compassion is essential on the path to enlightenment. Wisdom enables one to see t...
Embrace the eternal recurrence
Consider, my friends, the idea of eternal recurrence. Imagine that everything you have experienced in your life, every joy and ...