Taken from Mohammad Ali( sufi comics)
Many spiritual teachings emphasize the importance of controlling our desires. While this wisdom holds truth, we often misinterpret it to mean we must eliminate desires completely.
This misunderstanding can lead us down an impossible path—trying to suppress or destroy the very force that animates our spiritual journey.
Desire isn't the problem. Misdirected desire is.
The Nature of Desire
Imagine trying to eliminate your desire for water. You might succeed for a few hours, but eventually, your body's natural wisdom will override your mental effort.
This same principle applies to all desires: they are not meant to be eliminated but understood and directed.
To understand how desire works in our lives, let's look at its three expressions:
Unconscious Desire: Acting on impulse without awareness
Controlled Desire: Forcing ourselves to resist natural impulses
Conscious Desire: Understanding and directing our desires purposefully
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- When you notice a strong desire, pause
- Ask: "What's the deeper longing beneath this desire?"
- Consider: "How can this energy serve a higher purpose?"
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The Practical Path Forward
Instead of trying to control your desires, start with this simple practice:
Here's how to apply this understanding in life:
Instead of: Viewing desires as obstacles
Try this: See them as raw energy waiting to be directed.
Instead of: Trying to eliminate your desire for success
Try this: Channel that energy into serving others, you'll find success will follow at the right time.
Instead of: Fighting against material desires
Try this: Use them as signposts to understand your deeper longings.
The spiritual path isn't about becoming desireless—it's about allowing our desires to mature into their highest expression.
