Perhaps that is why we keep looking for "more." We actually become afraid when we get it (and we actually get what we want very often), however, we then dellude ourself into thinking that we did not actually get what we "really" wanted. Because, we are attatched to the feelings of desire themselves, and do not want to let them go.
An accute example: The most immensely enjoyable feeling of desire is often feeling "in love." For many people it is the height excitement for what "could be." However, when that desire is satisfied, we fall "out of love" very easily! We need to maintain the feeling of desire in order to "keep the flame alive." So we must be more unpredictable and "spontaneous" in a relationship, to fuel the desire for that person?
Since money is numerical, it is easy to maintain desire for it as it can reach numbers in the millions. Is that why greed is so common in this world, because we are "afraid" that our pleasurable feeling of desire for it will be quelled.
2007-06-21 03:03:05 · 7 answers · asked by driving_blindly 4 in Arts & Humanities ➔ Philosophy
I think you're on the right track, definitely. That's why I believe so many people are unhappy, because they measure their happiness by how much they have or how their current situation measures up to what they desire their situation to be. Their feelings are influenced by what they don't have, rather than what they do have.
Feelings are strange and sometimes dangerous things - they are so strong and so personal, but they do not indicate truth. Feeling alone doesn't mean that you are alone. Feeling worthless doesn't mean you're worthless. Feeling unsatisfied with your life doesn't mean that your life is unsatisfactory.
Truth is a better substitute for feelings. Not that we shouldn't have emotions, but I think that it's dangerous to assign truth based on emotions. One can feel sad about a break-up, but clinging to the sadness as truth can lead to depression. On the other hand, one can feel infatuated, but if they base a relationship on the feelings of infatuation, then they will easily fall out of love, like you said.
If a relationship is based on truth, it is not only stronger, but it's not dictated by feelings... "He was there for me when I needed him. He has the same mentality as I do about raising children. He lets me choose the movies when we go out. He respects me, and never insults me. We always have things to talk about." Basing a relationship on facts helps someone get past the times when they are angry or when they desire something more.
So basically, I think your question is true, and the remedy of battling the never-ending quest for more is by seeing the truth in a situation.
Good question :) Made me do some thinking
2007-06-21 03:29:39 · answer #1 · answered by HP Wombat 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I don't think fear is the result. If I get what I want sexually, for instance, I may want to experience the feeling again, but I certainly don't think of that as a fearful situation. If I get it again, good; if I don't, I'll live.
If we're talking about material goods, then perhaps you have something, but again, I think it's a question of defining what YOU want, and not what society says are the trappings of success. If you have what makes you happy, most people just want to keep it, unless they're immature enough to think that more = happier.
2007-06-21 10:57:37 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
You're right, if we are addicted to a "feeling" of desiring something, our mind won't allow the fulfillment - unless of course - we are imprinted with a liberal dose of 'expected' rejection, abandonment or loss in general.
Good observation about greed. I would think a strong "attachment" or addiction of some kind would have to exist to sustain the effort. Unless it is your serious passion and purpose or directly related to it.
2007-06-21 14:54:10 · answer #3 · answered by MysticMaze 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The thing with love is if you are truly in love the desire for each other doesnt die. It can but its truly hard.
2007-06-21 11:19:52 · answer #4 · answered by Candace 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Being or feeling is love is just an antidote to the fear of rejection, abandonment and being alone.
Most people cannot tolerate being alone.
2007-06-21 10:07:52 · answer #5 · answered by guru 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Condense that question into one and
I will answer it.
2007-06-21 10:16:32 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Be afraid...
Be VERY afraid...!!!
...of your girlfriend...
2007-06-21 11:56:43 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋