It’s all about the bliss

I am fond of saying that I think the heart of spiritual practice can be seen as a sophisticated form of hedonism. And there is probably a part of me that enjoys the provocativeness of the statement. But I also really do believe it on some level. It keeps me humble. When I see someone downing a beer or sitting zazen, it’s all on the same continuum of pleasure-seeking built into our bodies. Every sentient being just wants to be happy and everyone has their “practice” they hope is going to make that happen. My personal belief is that meditation is a vital part of a process of skillful means that leads to the deepest pleasures possible. It’s been through meditation that I have experienced bliss deeper than any drug or sex. I can’t ignore that this is probably why I keep coming back to the cushion. Buddha says that it’s through the Jhanas (absorption ecstasies) that we are purified and drawn into enlightenment. But nowadays the Jhanas are almost frequently dismissed as “dangerous” or as temporary crutches for the beginner or as spiritual materialism. Even the Tibetan and Indian Tantras are kept hush hush in “serious” circles; swept under the rug. I think this is a shame. In particular I think it creates a barrier to a more popular embrace of the contemplative life. There is a party going on inside the body and soul, no need for shoulds! Once shown proper meditation, the pleasure of spirit just naturally draws a person in deeper and deeper. Then better values begin to flow out naturally. It all feels really good. Spiritual pretension is side-stepped. I consider myself no different than a raging alcoholic, it’s just I’ve found the best drug ever to be addicted to.