TLDR;
This YouTube live stream by Hosein Aura discusses the concept of striving for a better life and how it can paradoxically become a barrier to happiness. He argues that the constant pursuit of self-improvement and future happiness prevents us from fully experiencing and appreciating the present moment. The key takeaways include:
- The pursuit of a better version of oneself can lead to a perpetual state of dissatisfaction.
- True happiness lies in accepting and loving oneself and one's current circumstances.
- Releasing the need for self-improvement allows for a deeper connection with the present moment and a more fulfilling life.
Introduction and Book Announcement [0:17]
Hosein Aura greets his audience with enthusiasm and gratitude, expressing his appreciation for their presence in the live stream. He mentions the success of his book, which has reached its 20th edition, and its recent launch in several bookstores. He also acknowledges viewers from outside the country and assures them that he is working on making the book accessible to them.
Breathing Exercise and Setting Intentions [1:17]
Hosein guides the audience through a series of five deep breaths to relax and center themselves. He emphasizes the importance of being present and attentive during the live stream, highlighting that the quality of attention is more important than the content itself. He expresses his hope that the session will be beneficial for everyone.
The Paradox of Striving for a Better Life [3:34]
Hosein introduces the central theme of the live stream: the common struggle of constantly striving to improve oneself and one's life. He points out that while this effort can be seen as a positive and sacred endeavor, it can easily turn into a significant obstacle. The desire for a better version of oneself and one's life can lead to a perpetual state of dissatisfaction, where happiness is always perceived as being just out of reach.
The Illusion of Future Happiness [5:33]
Hosein elaborates on the idea that many people live as if their current life is temporary, always waiting for a better future to arrive. He notes that even when engaging in self-improvement activities like meditation, exercise, and healthy eating, the underlying belief is that happiness will only be achieved once these efforts have produced the desired results. This creates a sense of detachment from the present moment and a constant longing for something more.
Shifting the Focus from External to Internal Achievements [6:08]
Hosein contrasts the old ways of seeking happiness through material possessions and worldly pleasures with the modern, more "spiritual" approach. He argues that while the methods have changed, the underlying problem remains the same: the belief that happiness is contingent on achieving certain goals, whether they be financial success or inner peace. He wants to challenge this mindset.
The Call to Embrace the Present Moment [7:21]
Hosein urges his audience to reject the notion that they need to improve themselves in order to be happy. He advocates for living fully in the present moment, accepting and embracing everything that is, without the need for change or improvement. He emphasizes that all the efforts we make are ultimately aimed at realizing the completeness and perfection of the present moment.
The Trap of Self-Improvement [8:37]
Hosein expresses his concern with the constant pursuit of self-improvement, arguing that it can become an ego-driven endeavor to polish oneself and create a favorable image. He warns that this pursuit can lead to years of wasted effort, just like the pursuit of worldly pleasures. He suggests that true fulfillment comes from accepting oneself as one is, rather than striving to become someone else.
The Completeness of the Present Self [10:08]
Hosein emphasizes that the present self, with all its flaws and imperfections, is already complete and sufficient. He acknowledges that this self may include negative emotions like fear, anger, and resentment, but insists that these are integral parts of who we are. He encourages listeners to embrace their whole selves, including the darkness, and recognize its inherent beauty and sacredness.
The Illusion of a Better Version of Yourself [11:07]
Hosein expresses his frustration with the idea of a "better version" of oneself, comparing it to a software update. He argues that if one is not content with who they are in the present moment, they will likely find new reasons to be dissatisfied in the future. He advocates for bringing full attention to the present reality, with all its chaos and imperfections, and accepting it as a complete and valid expression of life.
Embracing the Difficulties of Life [12:23]
Hosein asserts that there is no perfect moment in the future where all problems will be resolved. He states that life is inherently difficult but also beautiful, comparing it to mountain climbing. He encourages listeners to embrace the challenges and complexities of their current circumstances, recognizing that these are integral to the experience of being alive.
Loving Your Life with All Its Imperfections [13:45]
Hosein urges listeners to love their lives with all its difficulties and complexities, recognizing that these challenges will never disappear completely. He emphasizes the importance of understanding, accepting, and loving oneself, as this will lead to a transformation in one's presence and energy. He reiterates that true change comes from within, not from external efforts to improve oneself.
The Role of the "Self" in Creating Problems [16:12]
Hosein suggests that the reason for many of our problems is the constant interference of the "self," which is always telling stories about our lives and preventing us from fully accepting and loving them. He argues that if we can let go of this self, the need for constant striving and comparison will diminish, leading to a more peaceful and fulfilling existence.
The Ego's Pursuit of Enlightenment [18:52]
Hosein explains that the ego, which is driven by the desire to improve oneself, may even pursue enlightenment as a means of gaining status and recognition. He notes that the ego's focus is always on the "self" and its desires, whether it be material possessions or spiritual achievements. He quotes Tony de Mello, saying that we will not solve any problems until we solve the problem of the "self."
The Illusion of Personal Happiness [20:06]
Hosein emphasizes that as long as the "self" is the primary focus, true happiness will remain elusive. He argues that the "self" thrives on unhappiness and resistance, and that only by accepting oneself completely can one experience genuine joy and inner peace. He encourages listeners to release their attachment to the "self" and allow themselves to simply be.
Releasing the Need for Self-Improvement [21:28]
Hosein urges listeners to stop constantly thinking about themselves and trying to create ideal conditions for their own happiness. He promises that by letting go of this need for self-improvement, they will experience the feelings of joy and contentment that they have been seeking in the future. He simplifies the essence of life to being kind, smiling, breathing, appreciating nature, and finding sustenance.
The Simplicity and Difficulty of Life [22:41]
Hosein clarifies that while life is difficult, it is also simple. He distinguishes between simplicity and ease, stating that life is not easy but it is simple. He encourages listeners to bring their full attention to the present moment, be present, accept what is, and allow it to change without interference.
The Selfishness of Helping Others for Personal Gain [23:22]
Hosein shares an anecdote about a woman who claimed her mission was to help others, but admitted that she only did it to feel good herself. He points out the selfishness in this approach, arguing that true compassion comes from a place of selflessness, where one is not concerned with their own well-being. He encourages listeners to let go of their need to control and change others, and instead focus on accepting them as they are.
The Freedom of Self-Abandonment [25:18]
Hosein reiterates the importance of releasing the "self" in order to experience true freedom and ease in life. He promises that by letting go of self-concern and attachment to the past and future, one will receive everything they desire in the present moment. He emphasizes that true help to others comes from a place of selflessness, where one is not seeking personal gain.
The Nature of True Receiving [26:42]
Hosein explains that when one releases the "self," they no longer "receive" but rather "receiving happens." He compares this to nature, where everything unfolds spontaneously without any conscious effort or intention. He encourages listeners to align themselves with this natural flow, allowing life to unfold without resistance.
The Absence of Ego in Nature [27:11]
Hosein uses the example of a tree to illustrate the absence of ego in nature. He points out that the tree does not grow with any specific goal in mind, nor does it seek to please or impress anyone. It simply grows and flourishes according to its nature. He encourages listeners to emulate this natural spontaneity, allowing themselves to grow and evolve without any preconceived notions or expectations.
The Lack of a Personal Goal [28:30]
Hosein shares that he personally does not have a specific goal in life, and that he does not have the intention to help anyone. He explains that he does the live stream because it is a natural occurrence, like the wind blowing or the birds singing. He emphasizes that when there is no goal, there is no disappointment.
The Teachings of مولانا [29:45]
Hosein shares a poem by مولانا (Rumi) that speaks to the importance of being without the "self." He explains that when one is focused on the "self," they are weak and vulnerable, but when they are without the "self," they are powerful and free. He also shares another verse that says all restlessness comes from the search for rest.
The Consequences of Self-Involvement [33:08]
Hosein emphasizes that the more one is involved with the "self," the more they suffer. He compares this to protecting something that does not exist. He encourages listeners to release the idea that they need to have a good life, as this will lead them to the very life they have always deserved.
The World's Generosity vs. Self-Judgment [34:23]
Hosein contrasts the world's generosity with our own self-judgment. He argues that the world wants the best for us, but we often do not want the best for ourselves. He encourages listeners to stop judging themselves and to allow themselves to receive the abundance that the world has to offer.
The Frozen River Analogy [34:37]
Hosein uses the analogy of a frozen river to illustrate the state of being stuck in the "self." He compares the flowing river to the natural state of life, and the ice to the frozen "self" that is resistant to change. He explains that the ice is constantly being broken down and worn away until it eventually melts and rejoins the flow of the river.
The Spiritual Ego [35:45]
Hosein cautions against developing a "spiritual ego," where one uses their spiritual practices to feel superior to others. He shares humorous examples of people in meditation groups arguing over who is more enlightened. He emphasizes that the goal of spiritual practice is to diminish the "self," not to inflate it.
The Root of Evil: Comparison [38:59]
Hosein quotes Delson Dala, stating that the root of evil is the thought that some are better than others. He emphasizes that everyone is equal and that no one is superior or inferior to anyone else. He uses the analogy of a bucket of water taken from the ocean to illustrate the unity of all beings.
Becoming Smaller and Simpler [40:24]
Hosein encourages listeners to become smaller, simpler, and more childlike. He urges them to let go of their attachments and to allow their "self" to dissolve. He questions the pursuit of self-improvement, asking where it ultimately leads.
The Illusion of the Spiritual Path [40:43]
Hosein expresses his reservations about the term "spiritual path," as it implies a journey from one place to another. He argues that the path is more like a circle, where one eventually returns to the starting point. He emphasizes that everything we are seeking is already here, in the present moment.
Different Levels of Understanding [41:30]
Hosein clarifies that his teachings are not meant to be taken as absolute truths, but rather as different levels of understanding. He explains that what is true on one level may not be true on another. He uses the example of death to illustrate this point, noting that while death may be insignificant on a cosmic level, it is deeply meaningful on a personal level.
The Nature of Reality [43:35]
Hosein emphasizes that God is not in the future, but rather is present in the here and now. He explains that the spiritual path is not about reaching a destination, but rather about realizing what is already present. He encourages listeners to connect with their senses and to recognize the reality of the present moment.
The Difference Between Ideas and Sensations [44:57]
Hosein distinguishes between ideas and sensations, arguing that ideas are not real, while sensations are. He explains that even seemingly objective statements like "it is summer" are ultimately ideas, while the feeling of the wind on one's skin is a direct experience of reality. He encourages listeners to focus on their sensations rather than their thoughts.
The Essence of the Teachings [46:44]
Hosein reiterates that the spiritual path is not about reaching a destination, but rather about arriving at the present moment. He encourages listeners to embrace their current problems and challenges, recognizing that these are integral parts of their journey. He emphasizes that everything we are seeking is already within us.
The Importance of Sitting Still [48:07]
Hosein concludes by encouraging listeners to sit still and allow the things that are good for them to come to them. He promises that by releasing their need to control and pursue, they will attract the very things they need in their lives. He expresses his gratitude to his audience and shares a brief anecdote about a recent retreat.
