Why, do you think, most spiritual disciplines are just that - disciplines?

Question

What's the matter of not striving? Going with the flow? Just being?

Answer 1

I think they are disciplines because certain doctrines' preach, like religions that there is only their way to become closer to their "one and only true God" . As far as "mainstream religion" goes, in my humble opinion, Why engage yourself in a lengthy search for something/someone that you're not even sure exists? I personally would advocate your suggestion of going with the flow but that said, I strive to be a better person in whatever respects i can..

Answer 2

Hey, it takes discipline (i.e., self-control) to be a devout slacker! Always being tempted to "do something about it."

Being spiritual is a meaningless term without self-control. It is as important as deciding what your moral values are; what is important to you; all those matters of judgment. The easiest example is deciding that smoking is bad for you, but you keep right on smoking. Maybe you have decided it's really OK to screw up your lungs, because you've got to die of something, so it may as well be that. But the decision to quit has to come with the discipline to stay quit.

One day at a time.

Answer 3

Nothing- but if you do that, you have to decide to turn your back on the world. A lot of ascetics do it- go up in the mountains or something to escape the ratrace of everyday life. If you live in society, however, you have to go with the flow, or else you drown. Few of us have the tenacity or the endurance and the strength of mind to keep struggling against the flow and still come out on top.
And if you're just being, you aren't really fulfilling any purpose in life, are you? Unless you're a mystic who is actually remembered, or you come up with some deep spiritual insights into unanswered questions.

Answer 4

From a Pagan perspective? There's nothing wrong with just being, going with the flow, etc. In fact, that's often the best way to get through life.

But if you don't have any goals, and just do what you need to to get by, ultimately you'll end up unsatisfied, I think. If you don't take the time to know yourself and figure out what you want from life, then you'll never be able to get there. I think tha is the ultimate challenge. Getting to know yourself, learning what you can do.

Answer 5

Disciplines only work with the mind and ego...they will not give lasting peace. For peace and happiness, there is nothing to strive for...we are it - so just be.

~ Eric Putkonen