Detachment Means Separation

As spiritual enthusiasts, we may have the idea that we should be detached from life. Of course, in meditative absorption, there is no identification, and so there is neither attachment nor detachment.

‘Attachment’ and ‘detachment’ are relative terms. In our daily activities, becoming attached is the cause of our bondage and suffering – but this doesn’t mean that we have to be detached.

We seem to be born with a certain script or drama – a karmic plan which may be pleasant or unpleasant, or a little of both. This script is unavoidable although, by applying mindfulness, we can reduce its intensity. If we struggle against it, we may be creating more of the same. If, on the other hand, we accept this pattern of life as our play – and so play it out – we may find life has a resolution to it.

To be detached from life and from the suffering of others could be a huge error in the process of our evolution. Love and compassion – coming from empathy – arise from the wealth of our understanding, and forms the foundation of happiness.

A lack of empathy is a downward slide into hell. This is especially important for those of us who are spiritually inclined because, if we start to take ourselves too seriously, it’s possible to succumb to spiritual materialism. In this case, the script we are writing for ourselves inadvertently gives rise to ‘spiritual narcissism’, where we lack empathy for our spiritual brothers and sisters.

Lacking empathy…
Seeking admiration…
Self important…
Driven by status…
We arrive at narcissism.

Genuine, selfless kindness cuts through this instantly.