In this satsang, Ramesh Balsekar converses with Steven, a practicing Buddhist, about the concepts of God, free will, and happiness. The discussion delves into the philosophical differences between Balsekar's teachings and Buddhist practices, while also exploring the deeper meaning of happiness and the illusion of free will. The key points are as follows:
*Introduction to Steven:*
- *Steven's Background:*
- Steven, who recently retired from his career as a radio producer, is a practicing Buddhist for the past ten years.
- He expresses his agreement with most of Balsekar’s concepts but has difficulty reconciling the idea of "God's will" with his Buddhist understanding.
*The Concept of God:*
- *Steven's Discomfort with 'God’s Will':*
- Steven struggles with the notion of a personal God or the idea of "God's will" influencing events.
- Balsekar suggests that if the term "God" is problematic, Steven could think of it as an impersonal source or cosmic law that governs all happenings.
- *Understanding the Source:*
- Balsekar explains that the source is the ultimate reality, an unmanifest singularity that becomes the duality in the manifested world.
- He emphasizes that understanding this source is more important than the specific terms used to describe it, whether it be God, cosmic law, or something else.
*Living in the Present Moment:*
- *Steven’s Focus on the Present:*
- Steven discusses the importance of living in the present moment, acknowledging that the past is gone and the future is yet to come.
- Balsekar agrees but extends the discussion to the notion of happiness, emphasizing that happiness is the ultimate purpose of life.
- *Happiness and Peace of Mind:*
- Balsekar argues that from birth, humans instinctively seek happiness, whether through relationships, success, or pleasure.
- He suggests that true happiness is not found in external circumstances but in one's attitude toward life.
*Free Will and the Illusion of Control:*
- *The Illusion of Free Will:*
- Balsekar discusses the concept of free will, asserting that while humans have the freedom to act, they have no control over the outcomes of their actions.
- He explains that the sense of personal doership is an illusion, and that everything is predetermined according to cosmic law or destiny.
- *Steven’s Struggle with Free Will:*
- Steven expresses difficulty in accepting the idea that free will is an illusion, as it seems integral to the human experience.
- Balsekar reassures him that this realization is part of the spiritual journey, where one ultimately accepts that personal control is limited.
*The Pursuit of Happiness:*
- *Attitude Toward Life:*
- Balsekar emphasizes that happiness is not found in the flow of life, which alternates between pleasure and pain, but in one’s attitude toward life.
- He suggests that happiness depends on how one relates to others and the acceptance of circumstances beyond personal control.
- *The Role of Acceptance:*
- Balsekar introduces the concept of total acceptance, where one acknowledges that they are not the doer of their actions.
- This acceptance leads to peace of mind, as it frees the individual from guilt, shame, and the burden of personal responsibility.
*Conclusion:*
- *The Essence of Happiness:*
- Balsekar concludes that the ultimate happiness comes from understanding that everything happens according to cosmic law or God’s will.
- He advises Steven and other participants to focus on maintaining a harmonious relationship with others and to accept life’s circumstances as they unfold.
- *Personal Responsibility and Surrender:*
- The dialogue ends with Balsekar encouraging participants to surrender their sense of personal doership and to embrace the understanding that life is a predetermined flow, leading to true happiness and peace of mind.
This satsang offers profound insights into the nature of happiness, the role of the ego, and the illusion of free will, providing participants with a deeper understanding of their spiritual journey.
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