Posted by mist on November 20, 2001, at 10:38:01
In reply to Re: Whatever happened to anger turned inward? » mist, posted by sar on November 20, 2001, at 0:15:00
sar, I think treating people well and helping them can be gratifying but I guess for me not enough to change the way I feel overall. Regardless of what I do, there's a bottomless pit of depression and anxiety under all my actions and moments. -mist
> > sar, this sounds interesting as an approach to try although I don't entirely understand it. I wonder what type of actions they're referring to? -mist
>
> simply, as the Dalai puts it, :), good conduct. for instance, if you are stealing lipsticks from the store you will have negative feelings and thoughts. if you give a ride to a friend in need, this will lead to you feeling good (selfish altruism?).
>
> the only example i can offer is that i've recently been tutoring small children on phonics and simple reading. these children make me laugh, they bring me joy, and they are happy to see me. i am happy that i am making them happy and, in some small way, helping them with their studies.
>
> when i make offhanded insults to my family, steal a beer, neglect or harrass a friend, i feel poorly.
>
> isn't the simplicity of this amazing? i'm not saying that good conduct--as our great Dalai puts it--can eradicate depression; i just think it can lead to those little bursts of joy or satisfaction. years ago, i heard a special on NPR about depression, and they said that no one is "happy all the time"--you cannot strive for happiness--the most you can do is compile as many moments as joy as possible.
>
> this has stuck with me for years.
poster:mist
thread:14065
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/social/20011117/msgs/14118.html