Wednesday, April 14, 2010

Samvega - we're in it

Samvega – a complex state involving a kind of disillusionment with mundane life, and a wholehearted longing for a deeper investigation into the inner workings of the mind and the self.

Described by Buddhist monk Thanissaro Bhikkuh, samvega involves “at least three clusters of feelings at once…the oppressive sense of shock, dismay, and alienation that come with realizing the futility and meaninglessness of life as it’s normally lived; a chastening sense of our own complacency and foolishness in having let ourselves live so blindly; and an anxious sense of urgency in trying to find a way out of the meaningless cycle.”

We are certainly entering a state of samvega. Disillusioned by our current paths, we long to create a community of serving others through healing, laughter, movement, and a little bit of fun. ;)

So, we embrace our samvega, even though it's an uncomfortable place to settle. Even though we want the change to start NOW. But, change will come as we open ourselves to opportunity.

What kind of samvega are you in? What kind of metamorphosis are you striving for?

1 comment:

Marc Freedman said...

My samvega is about letting go of the myths I've let myself be hemmed in by, while not creating new ones. Living now, allowing and inviting, trusting the heart to prepare a path.