We live in a world that is becoming more and more interconnected thanks to our advancements in technology. Now, we are able to observe and interact with large numbers of people. This gives us a greater awareness over our entire life, like never before. It allows us not only to include a greater variety of perspectives, but also to observe their interplay from a deeper level. We are able to create new interpretations of the world and find new ways in which we can improve it.
One aspect that becomes clear is the way we interact as human beings. We realize that many problems that arise in our lives are due to our faulty communication and our attachment to the identity we have created, both as individuals and collectives. Our emotions and thoughts seem to betray us, they keep us captive in a loop of bad habits. When we become aware of this, we desire to change not only ourselves, but also those around us. We desire a better world.
As our awareness increases, we become aware of the problems that our egos create, we become aware of how they work deep inside ourselves. Sometimes, we are able to find solutions that transform ourselves and our lives. We then desire to share these solutions with everyone around us. When they work, we become confident. When they fail, we become frustrated.
First, we need to acknowledge the complexity of the situations we want to address. Then, we need to avoid getting attached to our solutions. Failing to do so will only enhance our frustration.
So, what are we supposed to do ? What can we do ? What should we do ?
We could look for new and better solutions. We can definitely do that. At the same time, we need to realize that we are part of this world and that every aspect of ourselves comes from the world and goes back into the world. We need to see that we, as a whole, are a continuous flux of life, which includes our faulty situation, our awareness of it and our desire to change. From the situation arises our awareness of it and from that awareness arises our desire. And all this becomes our new situation. Our frustration is part of this flux of life, but is it of good use ?
If we are to select a direction in which we should move together, we must also realize that such a direction arises from what we already are. Sometimes, that direction might not correspond with our desire. We can choose frustration or we can choose tranquility. The more awareness we bring into this flux of life, the more it changes. In the end, our awareness will choose tranquility.
Participate joyfully in the sorrows of the world. We cannot cure the world of sorrows, but we can choose to live in joy.
— Joseph Campbell
