Awakening Our True Nature: The Unnatural Aspects of Modern Life

People are unique and complex beings, with a duality inherent in our very nature. We are driven by an ego that is inherently “natural” yet highly “unnatural” when viewed from the perspective of a harmonious and balanced system, such as the one found in nature. Understanding and transforming our natural tendencies is crucial for our personal and collective well-being.

1. The Nature of Ego and Altruism

Our ego, a self-serving, individualistic force that is instinctive and natural to us, plays a significant role in our daily lives. However, it is often at odds with a more altruistic and interconnected side of our nature that is aligned with the principles of mutual responsibility and cooperation.

While the ego promotes self-interest and competitive survival, our true nature, as evident in acts of selfless love and service, is more in line with the principles of harmony and mutual support. Over centuries, this altruistic aspect has been suppressed and overshadowed by the dominance of the ego.

Blind Faith in the Ego

When we rely solely on our ego-driven instincts, we tend to behave in ways that are detrimental to ourselves and the environment. This leads to excessive consumption and ruthless competition, putting us in a position that is both ecologically and ethically unsustainable.

Awakening the Altruistic Side

Fortunately, through various social, economic, and environmental challenges, individuals today have the opportunity to awaken their altruistic nature. By consciously choosing to prioritize cooperation and mutual support, we can shift from a self-centered perspective to a more socially responsible and interconnected one.

2. Pursuing Happiness in an Unnatural Manner

Every person has a fundamental desire to love and be loved, which is deeply rooted in our nature. Seeking happiness through meaningful connections and giving and receiving love is the natural way to fulfill this need. Unfortunately, many individuals turn to external factors such as power, fame, unbalanced pursuit of wealth, promiscuous sex, drugs and alcohol, or gambling to find happiness.

While it may be natural for some to seek such external gratifications, these pursuits often lead to temporary and superficial satisfaction. They do not address the deeper, innate need for love and connection, and consequently leave individuals feeling empty and unfulfilled.

Recognizing the Unnatural Path

As people seek deeper fulfillment, they eventually come to understand that the path of self-serving external gratifications is inherently unnatural. Recognizing this, they may seek more profound and meaningful ways to achieve happiness, often leading to a quest for true fulfillment through acts of love, compassion, and service to others.

3. The Path to True Fulfillment

The journey towards a more naturally fulfilling life is one of personal growth and transformation. It involves overcoming the limitations imposed by the ego and embracing a more integrated and harmonious way of living. This path encourages individuals to:

Reflect on their motivations and values Prioritize relationships and community Engage in acts of kindness and service Develop a sense of empathy and understanding Embrace the interconnectedness of all beings

Ultimately, the choice to live in a way that promotes genuine fulfillment and mutual cooperation is not just a personal decision, but a necessary step towards the collective well-being of humanity.

Conclusion

Our true nature is a blend of egocentric and altruistic tendencies. By awakening and embracing our altruistic side, we can overcome the limitations imposed by the ego and find genuine fulfillment. This transformation is crucial not only for individual well-being but also for the long-term survival and prosperity of our species.

Let us strive to integrate these natural principles into our daily lives and work towards a future where love, cooperation, and mutual support are the guiding forces of human existence.