Posted by Daisym on November 1, 2008, at 17:22:49
In reply to Re: Desire versus Acceptance, posted by happyflower on November 1, 2008, at 16:47:48
I agree that these are not mutually exclusive concepts. Can we look at these things from the dual pieces of our brain? Our left brain may accept what is true and real and unchangeable. Our right brain flares with emotion - that passion to get, to fight and or the change things. I'd like to throw in here that I think happiness and acceptance go well together - though neither are static states - and that Joy and Desire go well together. When you "get" what you have desired, there is a surge of joy that is beyond happiness. It doesn't last as we then begin to desire the next thing - it is human nature.
I wrestle with a different question around this: Is it better to strive for happiness or "not being unhappy." They are very different states - and I think "not being unhappy" is close to the acceptance you speak of. I think achieving peace within myself might lead to not being unhappy. And yet, I think I was just born to be one of those people who says, "hey, wait a minute. If I do this, then that gets better. So I don't have to accept that as a reality. I can use myself as an agent of change." Which often leads to huge disappointment but great joys as well.
Do you talk about this in therapy? (anyone?) It is a great existential topic.
poster:Daisym
thread:860124
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/psycho/20081018/msgs/860249.html