The Wanting Mind
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Hello everyone. Today we’re exploring desire or wanting. There are different kinds of wanting. Some are motivational and help us to meet our basic needs. Others lead us to states of unease and distress and to a continuous merry-go-round of seeking to feel better, only to feel worse again.
When we are wanting to do something, it may be motivational and wise. The desire to study hard so that we can get a good job that allows us to take care of ourselves and our families. Or, the desire to provide for our basic needs like food, shelter, and relationship. This kind of wanting empowers us to act according to our basic human necessities and our values.
On the other hand, if we desire to earn as much money as we can to enrich ourselves through possessions and to garner entitlement without regard for the needs of others, then this motivational desire is not wise. It may bring momentary satisfaction and feed our ego but ultimately it causes us unease and suffering. Why? Because whatever we have is never enough. I’m sure you’ve heard this. Having stuff doesn’t bring happiness. No matter how much you have, you always need more or you need something different—the wanting never stops.
The kind of desire that brings distress is like an unquenchable thirst or wanting that can never be satisfied. It is a strong and powerful conditioned force in our minds.
The wanting mind runs the gamut from addiction to subtle nagging. We don’t just become addicted to nicotine, and drugs, and alcohol. We can become addicted to all kinds of things--relationships, clothes, social media or tech gear.
The wanting mind wants things to be as we want them and not something else. How do you feel when your plans get dashed? Or something that you counted on goes awry? Can you simply let go or is the wanting mind in turmoil because it must have what it is wanting.
So what do we do? We bring mindfulness to the wanting mind. We follow the thread... maybe we become aware of the effect... that feeling ... this feels good and then it doesn't. Or, maybe we become aware of the cause... the repetitive thought, speech, or action.
In this way, we can release the wanting mind, we can let go of suffering, and we can rest in the possibilities of life.
I’m grateful that you stopped by to listen and I am also grateful for the people behind the scenes who make this podcast possible.
Everyone who are members of the podcast;
Gorgias Romero for original music, audio engineering and production;
Bill Rafferty for technical web support;
Allie Allen for logo and podcast cover design; and
Margaret Haas for announcing the show.
Be well. Be mindful.
Resources/Credits.
Tolle, Eckhart, “Addiction to Thinking,” Essential Teachings, Oprah and Eckhart Tolle, Nov 24, 2021, podcast accessed on Apple Podcasts.
DISCLAIMER
The content in the podcast and on this webpage is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to constitute or be a substitute for professional medical or health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice and guidance of your health professional.
