So true, unffortunately , that when we are neither in pain, nor in ecstacy we become "comfortably numb" as you so well described. We accept things as they are because we are not particularly uncomfortable. Not until we cannot bear the pain/discomfort do we seek relief- meditation, study, a new way of looking at things ( as the present way is unbearable).
What a waste it is, in reality, being "comfortably numb" is! But oh so easy! But, it is better for our development to get out of the cage, into the woods! To be open to changing worlds! 🙏❤🙏
Oh David, You are so right. Wherever you go there you are. You can’t run away from your thoughts. You can only try and change them. The thoughts always become habits unless in takes steps to step into the unknown, which I am contemplating now after 40 years. You know what this is and I am worried if it will affect my Karma or my striving for Bodichitta?
It’s a difficult decision to make after all these years. But for sanities sake I must make the move.
Thank you David for such thought-provoking insights and questions. So much resonated with me. Your comment along the lines of how we can respond thoughtlessly and fail ‘to see’ those we are familiar and dear came to my mind when at an art gallery yesterday. I noticed an elderly couple approach a beautiful intricate painting. The man exclaimed ‘I like this, the colours, it could go on the wall opposite the TV’ . ‘It’s too complicated’ she said dismissively & turned away. The man was shut down, with no opportunity to discuss what appealed to him, and quietly followed after her. It seemed so sad and I wondered how often I, too, am so carelessly offhand. To try to be aware of our comfortably numb & habitual ways is something to strive for.
Thank you David. This makes me think of the Deep Purple lyric from 'Pictures Of Home', but probably taken completely out of context, 'Here in this prison, of my own making'.
Deeply moving and thought provoking, as always, David. You have a gift with words, thoughts, and important contemplations. Thank you for sharing your gift! xoxo
So true, unffortunately , that when we are neither in pain, nor in ecstacy we become "comfortably numb" as you so well described. We accept things as they are because we are not particularly uncomfortable. Not until we cannot bear the pain/discomfort do we seek relief- meditation, study, a new way of looking at things ( as the present way is unbearable).
What a waste it is, in reality, being "comfortably numb" is! But oh so easy! But, it is better for our development to get out of the cage, into the woods! To be open to changing worlds! 🙏❤🙏
How many times have we heard, or said, "I really had no choice!" about a terrible choice made.
Oh David, You are so right. Wherever you go there you are. You can’t run away from your thoughts. You can only try and change them. The thoughts always become habits unless in takes steps to step into the unknown, which I am contemplating now after 40 years. You know what this is and I am worried if it will affect my Karma or my striving for Bodichitta?
It’s a difficult decision to make after all these years. But for sanities sake I must make the move.
Thank you
Peter
Thank you David for such thought-provoking insights and questions. So much resonated with me. Your comment along the lines of how we can respond thoughtlessly and fail ‘to see’ those we are familiar and dear came to my mind when at an art gallery yesterday. I noticed an elderly couple approach a beautiful intricate painting. The man exclaimed ‘I like this, the colours, it could go on the wall opposite the TV’ . ‘It’s too complicated’ she said dismissively & turned away. The man was shut down, with no opportunity to discuss what appealed to him, and quietly followed after her. It seemed so sad and I wondered how often I, too, am so carelessly offhand. To try to be aware of our comfortably numb & habitual ways is something to strive for.
Well.... didn't this one make me think?
Hit me right between the eyes. Yup, comfortably numb and i didn't even know it.
Thanks David.... I think!
Thank you David. This makes me think of the Deep Purple lyric from 'Pictures Of Home', but probably taken completely out of context, 'Here in this prison, of my own making'.
Deeply moving and thought provoking, as always, David. You have a gift with words, thoughts, and important contemplations. Thank you for sharing your gift! xoxo
Dearest David,
I feel identified with two points:
It’s arrogance to believe that I can achieve enlightenment.
And sometimes I am discouraged to meditate, even though I know how powerfully a meditation practice can change our experience of reality.
But I keep myself practicing as far as I can.
Thank you for sharing your posts, are very important to me, it keeps me my knowledge fresh.