Desire

[novapsyche]

We humans think we are so special because, for us, copulation is pleasurable. (I'm sure other sentient species, were they to discover this, would be envious.)

However--and this is just a fleeting thought, I haven't fleshed it out quite yet--what if that is the reason that our lives are consumed by desire? Here, I'm defining desire as a mere want. Buddhism, as a system, turns on this definition; behaviorism does as well.

I'm not trying to retell the story of Original Sin (if only because I've thrown that out of my belief system). I guess I'm just engaging in mental masturbation as to whether the quality of desire is or could be considered to be transferred upon conception. (In other words, I think I comprehend the strange logic that must have required of Protestantism to promote cheerless reproduction.)

Comments

Re: It made sense in my head at least

[lazynjbum.livejournal.com]

But that greater desire leads to greater pain if the desire can not be met. Think of someone you really liked or loved and could not get for whatever reason, now didnt that hurt more than lets say not getting a second slice of pizza when you were hungry.
Also, pain and suffering stems from losing something that we find desirable, therefore if we never desire material things then we will feel no pain and cease suffering.
Also, if you all dont mind I would like to put you all on my friend's list, it seems that everyone that had responded is intelligent and knows what they are talking about.

Re: It made sense in my head at least

[komos.livejournal.com]

Greater desire will only lead to greater pain if there is some sort of tacit assumption that that desire should be attainable by right or reason. This is where the value we place upon that desire informs what is to become of that desire. That unfulfilled desire can be pain, but it can also be promise of greater reward, motivation towards a goal, or even a valuable learning experience.

I think, ultimately, that denying desire is unrealistic. Desire is simply an aspect of humanity, and to deny it is to deny a piece of yourself. It can be shaped and harnessed as a positive force, or it can twist you, depending on the place that you give it in your life.

Again, though, these are fairly ill-formed thoughts fired off the cuff, so your results may vary...

And sure, I'm always happy to entertain new readers.