The Essence of Life

By Victor M Fontane

The essence of life is a grand, magnificent narrative woven from countless threads of interconnected causes and conditions (Pratītyasamutpāda). From the moment of conception, we embark on a path paved by past actions (Karma), shaping our subconscious (Alaya-vijnana) and guiding our seemingly spontaneous actions, such as instinctively and selflessly rescuing someone.

These acts of valor may also stem from a series of subtle occurrences, converging across time to culminate in that pivotal moment of unconscious choice. (*Perhaps a forgotten lesson of compassion, a chance encounter that fostered empathy, or even a past life connection, all invisibly orchestrating the present moment.*)

Through meditative practice (Dhyāna), we can retrace these past experiences, gaining insight into the specific outcomes generated by each action. In this contemplation (Vipassanā), we begin to realize that all we can truly alter is how we think, how we perceive the world in a more holistic manner. This shift, while seemingly an exercise of free will, is still constrained by our past karma and current circumstances, particularly the subtle influence of technology on our consciousness.

Samādhi, this transcendent state, isn't a tangible entity, but rather a profound comprehension of the universal laws (Dharma). Within Samādhi, we witness the arising and ceasing of all phenomena, the constant flux of interconnected causes and conditions, and the workings of karma. All worldly things are merely designations (Nāma-rūpa), lacking inherent distinction. We understand that a Bodhisattva is not attached to appearances (Anatta). A seemingly selfless act of rescue is merely a single thought, labeled as "Bodhisattva" or "miracle." (*A deep sense of interconnectedness washes over them, dissolving the sense of separate self.*) Even seemingly wasted time can be understood as averting potential harm or trouble. Bodhisattvas and deities can be omnipresent yet unreal, formless and intangible, known only through wisdom gained through enlightenment (Bodhi). This wisdom is neither real nor unreal, encompassing even concepts like family, success, and failure, which are also designations born from karma. Family members gather due to conditions, separate due to conditions, and ultimately cease due to the exhaustion of conditions.

Success and failure are transient, dependent on our perspective and mindset. Some can transform obstacles into opportunities for growth, while others may be hindered by them. Regardless, both are ultimately manifestations of interconnected causes and conditions.

Within this framework of interdependence (Pratītyasamutpāda), while our thoughts and actions may be limited, we can still choose to pursue inner peace and wholeness within these constraints. This echoes Lao Tzu's concept of "following the Tao" (Ziran); we align ourselves with the Tao, which itself is a flexible and intelligent flow. (*We become like water, adapting to the contours of the riverbed, yet always moving forward.*)

Embracing this perspective on life, we can approach each day with an open heart, releasing past constraints and sharing love and wisdom with others. This wisdom not only brings a sense of fulfillment to our own lives but also offers liberation and peace to many.