It is peculiar how from a young age we seek fulfillment outside of ourselves. Lured by the promise of satisfaction, people assume that some material thing, someone, or some experience will provide happiness and freedom. And in a world full of instant gratification—online gaming, notification of likes, impulse shopping, sports betting, the Powerball jackpot that recently went for $1.8 billion—the false hope of fulfillment is everywhere. Especially for young people today, raised under the spell of the screen, available instantaneously at the touch of a finger, there is a near constant pursuit of satisfaction. The internet feeds on people’s craving, duping us into believing that material gain can satisfy the soul.
In yoga it is said that craving grows like weeds everywhere the mind is disturbed. Craving, the very root of all suffering, leads to restlessness and angst. Ultimate solace is not to be found in the outward pursuit of riches, fame, or followers, but by attending to something delicate and more elusive inside. It is a thing that can never be posted on FB or IG, something beyond likes and dislikes. As it is said in the Katha Upanishad, “The immature run after sense pleasure and fall into the widespread net of death. The supreme Self is beyond name and form, beyond the senses, inexhaustible, without beginning or end.”
What is the thing that will make us feel whole and entire? In this lifetime, we are each like a puzzle piece, searching for the interlocking match that will make us feel complete. We try out many pieces, casting about for the right fit. But it will never be a person, place or thing that matches the power, width and depth of our soul. It is only by turning inward that we come to rest in a place of enduring peace.
