The meaning of “satisfaction can be a part of whatever we do” within the context of Chapter 1 (“The Ordinary Condition of Human Life”) of Seeing with the Eye of Dharma. This seemingly simple statement holds a profound key to transforming our relationship with the ordinary ups and downs of life.
Understanding the Context:
Remember, Chapter 1 sets the stage by acknowledging the inherent suffering (dukkha) that is part of human existence. This includes impermanence, change, and the overall unsatisfactoriness of life. The purpose isn’t to wallow in negativity, but to honestly recognize this reality as a starting point for finding liberation. Within that context, the idea of “satisfaction” becomes very important.
What the Statement Means:
“Satisfaction can be a part of whatever we do” doesn’t mean that we can magically make every activity pleasurable or exciting. Instead, it suggests a shift in how we approach our experiences, regardless of what they are. It means:
- Finding Meaning and Purpose: Even in tasks that seem mundane or unpleasant, we can find a sense of meaning or purpose. This could be as simple as recognizing that doing the dishes helps maintain a clean home for our family, or that completing a difficult task at work contributes to a larger goal. The intention with which we act can bring a sense of satisfaction, no matter what the action is.
- Embracing the Present Moment: Rather than constantly striving for something “better” or waiting for the “perfect” moment, we can find satisfaction in the present moment. It means that we can be grateful for what we have and where we are, right now.
- Cultivating a Sense of Contribution: Even if we don’t find personal enjoyment in an activity, we can find satisfaction in knowing that it benefits others. This could involve volunteering our time, helping a friend, or simply performing our job with integrity and care. By looking for those benefits, rather than our own, we can find satisfaction, even in unpleasant tasks.
- Practicing Mindfulness: By bringing focused attention to whatever we are doing, we can find a sense of satisfaction in the act itself, rather than being distracted by thoughts of the past or future. This does not mean being perfect, but practicing non-judgemental awareness.
- Letting Go of Expectations: Often, our dissatisfaction comes from our expectations about how things “should” be. By letting go of these expectations, we can find more contentment in the reality of what is. This involves surrendering to what is rather than fighting against what we wish things would be.
- Accepting Imperfection: Recognizing that nothing is perfect allows us to find satisfaction even in activities that are flawed or incomplete. The joy is in the process, not in the result, or the need for perfection.
- Recognizing Skill Development: By recognizing how we are developing our skills, we can find joy in the process of building.
Why This Is Important:
- Transforming Our Relationship with Life: It shifts our focus from constantly seeking external sources of happiness to cultivating inner contentment. We are not reliant on the external world for finding joy and satisfaction.
- Reducing Suffering: By finding satisfaction in whatever we do, we reduce our reliance on conditions being “just right” for us to be happy, reducing resistance and negativity. We learn to work with the world, rather than to fight against it.
- Increased Appreciation: It promotes a sense of appreciation for the small things in life, the everyday moments that we often overlook. By learning to be grateful for what we have, rather than longing for what we don’t, we create a foundation for a more joyful experience.
- Cultivating a Positive Mental State: By actively choosing to find satisfaction, we cultivate a more positive and resilient mental state.
In Simple Terms:
Imagine washing dishes. Instead of dreading it as a chore, you can find satisfaction in:
- The feeling of the warm water on your hands
- The clean dishes sparkling in the light
- Knowing that you are creating a clean and comfortable space for your family
- Using the time for reflection
You are actively choosing to find what is present, and what is beneficial, rather than the negative aspects of the task. The task is still washing dishes, but your experience is transformed.
Key Takeaway:
“Satisfaction can be a part of whatever we do” is about actively choosing to find meaning, purpose, and contentment in every moment, regardless of the external circumstances. It’s a powerful tool for transforming our relationship with life and reducing suffering. It is about shifting the focus from the destination to finding joy on the path and that every part of the path is of equal importance.