This is a continuation of the Happiness theme for the month. Here we examine the nature of sensory pleasures and how and why they cannot deliver actual happiness. In fact, one can be heavily engaged in sensory pleasures of all varieties and at the same time be suffering from depression or even entertaining suicidal thoughts. This is due to the fact that the stimulating of the body or mind does not really ‘touch’ the soul itself and leaves us unfulfilled within. Madly chasing sensory pleasures not only does not deliver the happiness we seek, but it also tends to destroy peacefulness, an essential foundation for happiness.
“One who is not connected with the Supreme can have neither transcendental intelligence nor a steady mind, without which there is no possibility of peace. And how can there be any happiness without peace?” – Bhagavad-gita 2.66
We need to strive to live a more balanced life, recognizing that material happiness cannot fulfill our real inner need for happiness. We do not have to shun material experience, but we need to accept the nature of these experiences are neither permanent nor satisfying. What we need is spiritual ‘nutrition’, food for the soul. This is really what meditation using spiritual sound (kirtan) is all about.
