The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali can be read as a road map on the
path towards connection to our own greatest Light. Each of the 196 sutras has a
lesson that could be used on any day of the year. Here we will choose one sutra
and reflect upon it with a seasonal perspective.
II.39 aparigraha-sthairye janma-kathantâ-sambodhaï
Freedom from wanting unlocks the real purpose of
existence.
Sutra II.39 is a great teacher during this time of year because
it reminds us that when we are firmly rooted in freedom from being acquisitive
we become settled into the understanding of why we are here. The opposite of
wanting more is being content with what you have. This is the essence of the
season as we reflect with gratitude on the many gifts we have been given.
Indeed our physical existence and ability to enjoy our connection with food,
friends, and the natural world is our greatest gift. If we find ourselves
greedy for more we invalidate this gift of physical existence that we share
with all other people on the planet right now.
Actively practicing the freedom from wanting can unlock the real
purpose of existence because we ease the tension of the mind towards
acquisitiveness. This can give us more space for connection with immaterial and
spiritual aspects of our lives. By no means is this sutra asking us to
renounce all of our possessions and go live in a cave. We all have certain
basic needs to meet, and in many cases this will require us to own a car, a
home etc. However acquisition always implies a transfer of resources; usually
while we are gaining something we are losing something else. It is our choice
to determine which resources best serve our purpose on the planet at this time.
Some things to contemplate this season:
• What truly
feeds me?
• When do I
feel deeply happy, and secure in my happiness?
• What do I
really want? Why?
• How do I
practice aparigraha (non-grasping) in small daily ways?
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