The Prey of Desire and Fear

~ By Ajahn Jayasāro ~

Some time ago I was discussing the design of a building with its architect. He explained the choices he had made in the design using such words as ‘honest’ and ‘sincere’. For me, as a monk, it was interesting to hear ethical terms used to justify the number of windows in a wall, or the placing of pipes. I realised that it would be impossible to critique the design without appearing to take the side of the dishonest and insincere. Metaphors had taken on a life of their own.

In a similar vein, many corporations these days try to convince consumers that their products are simply expressions of such positive values as ‘transcendence’ or ‘community’. This they hope will lead to long-term relationships with consumers and brand loyalty. In a world where the forces trying to manipulate our emotions are so overwhelming, where can we place our trust? Mindfulness is a good place to start.

Mindfulness creates for us a gap between stimulus and response. We are able to recognise ‘in real time’ whether we are being persuaded to believe that buying a product or service will make us more attractive, of higher status or, in some way, a better person. With mindfulness, we can evaluate that claim within a single breath. The more mindful we are, the less gullible. Without mindfulness, even the smartest people are the prey of their desires and fears.

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"Food for the Heart", a series of Dhamma teachings handwritten weekly is posted on the Buddhadāsa Indapañño Archives page with Ajahn's kind permission.

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For other teachings by Ven. Ajahn Jayasāro, please visit the Panyaprateep Foundation website.