Inner Work

For the week of November 5, 2007

Satisfaction and Dissatisfaction

To what degree are you satisfied with your life, or even with your day? What brings you satisfaction? Are you ever completely satisfied, utterly content? How long does that last?

From our ordinary perspective, this world we inhabit never reaches perfection. Even the most satisfying event, person, or object always has feet of clay. Nothing in time lasts forever, everything decays eventually, and everyone has shortcomings.

These facts, however, do not in themselves explain our dissatisfaction, which derives from our rejection of what is and our desire for something other than what is. Dissatisfaction emanates from our attitude of not being satisfied with our life as is, wanting more or less of something or someone. That non-acceptance in turn arises from non-presence. Experiencing the fullness of this moment opens us to acceptance and deep satisfaction. Non-acceptance, on the contrary, pushes aside any possibility of inner peace or of love.

From a deeper perspective, this world embodies perfection, even in its imperfections. The essence of this moment reaches beyond time and decay. The spiritual path leads us toward a sense of appreciation and love that rises above the imperfections, a sense bestowed on us by the Unconditioned Source of Perfection.

For this week, look at the role of satisfaction and dissatisfaction in your life. How do these factors and attitudes drive your actions and responses? Does your work at presence make a difference in this regard?

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