The Basis Of Negative Emotions

The basis of negative emotions
is an illusory self relating to illusory appearances.

‘Self’ is an accumulation of ideas in the mind that consciousness mistakenly believes itself to be.

This phantom is empty of reality. What this self relates to is also an empty reality, as all phenomena is impermanent, being without a constant basis. The basis of negative emotions is therefore an illusion that fritters away our life.

The very instant before an emotion arises, there is the presence of bright consciousness – divine, blazing splendour. Something stirs in mind, and that is luminous awareness, pure consciousness.

But we miss this glorious moment, because the brain has gone into ‘brand awareness’, where it recognises a symbol before we become aware of it, and the mind is infected. This happens all the time, when reptilian brain cuts in with fight, flight or freeze.

Brand awareness: neuroscientists know that effective logos can trigger memory, perceptually processing and influencing people’s decision-making not only to choose a brand once, but become loyal to it without any conscious awareness. Brands aren’t just boring bundles of concepts; brands are deeply emotional.

Politics, religion, sport, celebrities, music, art, names, personal interactions … these all make up our brand awareness.

Drop it and wisdom arises, but we have to let go.
Try counting the breath!