Yesterday I was asking myself what is it that I want and came up with a long list of things. From world peace to recognition to health and a good education for my daughter. Now, switching the question to what could I live without is interesting since it puts all my desires in perspective. For example, I’d love to have a huge house with pool, jacuzzi, sauna and everything else, but (and I hesitate a little here since I’ve been told -I’m working on it- that thought become things and thoughts of lack become the reality of lacking, but Universe, keep in mind that this is a thought experiment, no definitive requests here ;0) ) I know I can live, and pretty good for that matter, without it. I would not mind a house in Europe and even my own private jet, but again I won’t die if I don’t have it (Arnold Schwarzenegger liked to say that if you don’t want something is because you don’t want it bad enough, hence you are not willing to pay the price to have it, I believe that is accurate, often the problem is lack of clarity on what we want between seemingly competing desires).
Now, let’s move to more difficult things to give up. Could I live without my health? Sure I could, it would take some adjustments, but is doable, many have done it. Could I live without my family? Of course, it would be very painful but I could keep on living (as many divorcees and people being in accidents can attest). Could I live without being able to provide adequately to my family? (ouch, this begins to hurt) or a good education to my daughter? Yes, even asking the question makes me aware of the desires and assumptions behind it. Why would she need a “good” education for? Am I not trying to un-learn much of what I learned in years of schooling (aka domestication and brain-washing)? I won’t even go to recognition, I know I can live without it (a small part of me feels sad when I write that). World peace? It would be wonderful and I totally believe it is possible but (and here my whole system begins screaming, no! don’t give up this one, the whole world is your creation and it is your responsibility to make it right!) OK, big breath… yes, I could live without it too. I’ve done it, now I feel sad! But let’s not stop there. Can I live with sadness? Sure I can.
Ok, so what would be impossible for me to give up! I love my thinking, could I live if I had a brain tumor or somewhat I were to lose my mind? Chances are “I” would not even notice it! (I’ve been thinking about Nietzsche’s becoming crazy and wondering if it was such a bad thing for him. Chances are it was a relief since in his writing we can almost feel his angst in thinking). So yes, life would continue even if I were to lose my mind…
Ok, Dana just woke up and I have Chihuahua on my lap. Can I live without finishing these? Sure I can. Life is good.
