on The Plan

The Gita, in chapter 3, paints an interesting picture for the “intention” of this creation.  Humanity was intended to motivate its actions in honor of “the Devas”.  Devas here means the inhabitants of heaven, namely the gods and goddesses.  For those more squeamish about the idea of Gods/God, it can really mean our highest ideals.  In return, those Devas would be gracious.  Each (man and gods) would thus serve each other selflessly.  Man would live in freedom and karma would not bind him.

It turns out, as many would insist, that the plan was optional.  And, as with all options, many of us opt for it.   Perhaps we do not realize  that we were selling ourselves into bondage to our “needs” and desires based upon our bodies.  Perhaps we realize it and just cant seem to help ourselves because we have established a habit.

Had we not chosen to “steal” from the devas without giving our honor for our part, we would live in delight, satisfaction and peace in the Atman (the Self of all, God).  Instead we provide our ever-burning desires with fuel for which we have to pay in the form of selfish work (ie for paychecks).  We labor endlessly to fulfill our apparent desires and cannot stop, even when we want to.  For a man whose joy is in this lusting, the Gita says “His life is for nothing.”  Literally, he has spent it on the unreal, temporary things of the senses.  He is a child who has purchased a lottery ticket without choosing a number.  His hope of satisfaction is in vain.  At the time of death, as the world of the senses slips away, he has nothing for his continued voyage.

The only thing that keeps this fact from being cruel is that by grace the option is always open.  We are allowed to choose from moment to moment.  And choose we must.  Scriptures, teachers, experience and inference are the tools to help us make the right choices.  Dig deeply in each and reach for your highest ideal.  “Do your duty, always; but without attachment.  That is how a man reaches the ultimate truth; by working without anxiety about results.”  Serve your highest ideal.  Always.