All creation arose from the desire of the cosmic mind to create. Desire, therefore, is the fuel behind the manifested universe. Everything we perceive from the simple to the very complex arose from desire. However, that is very different from ego-based desire, which is only motivated by selfish fulfillment.
Ego-based desire is the root cause of all suffering. Therefore, constant feeding of desires is not the key to happiness, but renunciation and discrimination provide the answer. That simply means giving up the lesser for the greater, and, the uncertain for the certain.
Meditate in solitude and try to perceive the fleeting nature of the world. Gradually discrimination will awaken to remind us to be effortless in our quest and to finally dwell in a state of unchanging oneness...
My Guru in Disguise by Priya Mookerjee
The book My Guru in Disguise is a daughter's compelling account of being a witness to the profound inner changes that her mother goes through.
Explanation -
Ego-based desire is the root cause of all suffering. Therefore, ... means giving up the lesser for the greater, and, the uncertain for the certain.
Ego-Based Desire and Suffering: In many spiritual teachings,
ego-based desires are seen as the root cause of suffering. This is because
desires often arise from the ego's need to assert itself, to seek validation,
pleasure, or to avoid pain. However, desires are insatiable; they lead to
attachment and create a cycle of craving, dissatisfaction, and suffering.
Renunciation and Discrimination: Renunciation refers to the
act of consciously giving up desires or attachments. Discrimination, in this
context, refers to the ability to discern between what is truly important or
beneficial (the greater) and what is fleeting or detrimental (the lesser). By
renouncing desires and practicing discrimination, individuals can free
themselves from the cycle of suffering caused by ego-based desires.
Giving Up the Lesser for the Greater: This concept suggests
prioritizing long-term fulfillment and spiritual growth over short-term
gratification. It involves sacrificing immediate pleasures or superficial
desires in favor of higher values such as compassion, wisdom, and inner peace.
Giving Up the Uncertain for the Certain: Uncertainty often
accompanies desires and attachments. By relinquishing desires, one moves away
from the uncertainty inherent in the ever-changing external world and toward
the certainty found within oneself or in transcendent truths. This could mean seeking
stability in spiritual practice, inner peace, or a deeper connection to a
higher power or truth.
Ultimately, the idea is that true happiness and fulfillment
come from transcending the ego's desires and finding contentment within oneself
or in alignment with higher principles or realities. This doesn't necessarily
mean living a life devoid of pleasure or ambition but rather cultivating a
mindset of detachment and discernment in pursuit of genuine happiness and
spiritual growth.