From the moment we become conscious, we are driven by desire. It's one of those invisible currents that moves through human experience like a subterranean stream.
I think the act of wanting is more nuanced than we imagine. Part of the reason being that there's a rhythm to human wanting that I've alluded in my recent post. Drawing an arrow then releasing it.
Let's consider how we chase after inanimate objects and emphereal feelings: money, success, love, validation etc.
Many of these pursuits objectively feel like drawing an arrow, pulling back with increasing tension, believing that the tighter we grip, the more likely we are to hit our target.
Of course, it must've worked in certain instances for us to develop this presumption.
But generally, I think life rarely follows our most calculated intentions, especially when we start leveling up, so to speak.
The more desperately someone pursues wealth, the more it seems to eludes them.
Entrepreneurs caught in a frantic cycle of accumulation sooner or later find themselves trapped in a precarious state.
Desperation creates a kind of energetic repulsion, which in itself creates an unconscious barrier to success.
Meanwhile those who've learnt to develop a relationship with money that's both ambitious and detached, as in viewing it as a tool for creation rather than an end in itself are the ones that fare well on this.
In relationships, this dynamic is more noticeable after experiencing it for a few times.
A Magnetic Space
I think many of us have this experience of frustration born from a romantic pursuit driven by neediness or fear of loss, which typically pushes potential partners away.
In hindsight, it always seem obvious to me that trying to control an uncontrollable dynamic is a recipe for disaster.
Needless to say, you have to let go to get what you really want. The tricky part is when to let go.
Creating a magnetic space of genuine connection that can be sustainable in the long run tends to require loving with a passionate yet unattached way.
In a way, we can call this a sophisticated form of engagement that recognizes the subtle energetics of desire.
Notice both examples in wealth and relationships make use of two words that seem quite contradictory. Ambitious and detached, or passionate yet detached.
This means there's an element of balance that needs to be sought after.
Now, balance doesn't always mean in the middle but having the ability to be flexible and move across both sides of the spectrum.
Because desire is not a force that controls you, but an energy you can skillfully direct.
This is the knowledge node that I understand yet not understand at the same time.
Actually, I always forget about it despite the numerous times life has demonstrated its wisdom.
Maybe, I don't yet understand it enough.
Thanks for reading!! Share your thoughts below on the comments.