Introduction: Growth Through Problems and Bliss?
“A problem is a way of creating a future. When plants grow and evolve they do so by way of problems, developing features to avoid predators, to maximise light or to retain moisture.” said Claire Colebrook, philosopher and cultural theorist.
But is there an opposite thought where one can grow through bliss or non-problems?
The notion of growth and evolution through problems is a significant theme in Claire Colebrook’s interpretation of Deleuze’s philosophy. However, the idea of growing through bliss or non-problems is also explored, particularly in other philosophical and spiritual traditions.
Philosophical Perspectives on Growth
Deleuze and the Generative Nature of Problems
In “Difference and Repetition,” Deleuze emphasizes the positive and productive nature of problems. He suggests that problems themselves are full and differentiated positivities, meaning they are inherently creative and generative. This perspective aligns with the notion that engaging with problems can lead to growth and development. However, Deleuze also acknowledges the concept of immanence, where the affirmation of life itself, beyond the dialectic of problems and solutions, can be seen as a form of growth through bliss or positive affirmation.
Claire Colebrook, in interpreting Deleuze, emphasizes that problems are fundamental to growth and evolution. This perspective suggests that encountering and solving problems is a way to create a future, with organisms (including humans) developing new features or abilities in response to challenges. This idea is grounded in Deleuze’s broader philosophical framework, where problems are seen as generative forces, creating new realities and possibilities.
Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj’s Perspective
In “I Am That,” Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj suggests that the acceptance of both pleasure and pain can lead to a deeper understanding and experience of bliss. He argues that bliss is found in the awareness and acceptance of experiences as they come, whether they are perceived as pleasant or painful. The idea is not to shun pleasure or pursue pain but to embrace both with awareness, which leads to a deeper and more enduring happiness.
However, the idea of growing through bliss or non-problems is also worth considering. Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj, for example, offers a different perspective in “I Am That.” He suggests that true bliss comes from the acceptance of both pleasure and pain, not by pursuing one or avoiding the other. By embracing all experiences with awareness, one can achieve a state of enduring happiness and growth. This idea focuses on the internal state of acceptance and awareness, rather than external challenges or problems, as the path to growth.
Alternative Philosophical and Spiritual Approaches
Taoism: The Principle of Wu Wei
Taoism, particularly through Lao Tzu’s teachings, emphasizes “wu wei,” or effortless action. It suggests that a master, by not engaging with the world in forced ways, allows everything to be done by itself in harmony with the natural flow of the universe. This approach to life through bliss and acceptance is central to Taoist philosophy.
Tantra: Integration of the Sacred and Mundane
Tantra, in both Hinduism and Buddhism, teaches that spiritual growth comes from embracing all aspects of life, including sensory experiences, as pathways to spiritual realization. It emphasizes the unity of the sacred and the mundane and the awakening of spiritual energy within the body.
Zen Buddhism: Mindfulness and Presence
Zen Buddhism focuses on mindfulness and living in the present moment, accepting life as it is without judgment. This practice leads to a state of inner peace and acceptance, aligning with the idea of growing through non-problematic thinking.
Stoicism: Acceptance and Inner Peace
Stoicism teaches the acceptance of what is within our control and finding peace regardless of external circumstances. It emphasizes rationality and inner tranquility, suggesting that true contentment comes from within.
Comparative Analysis
Problems vs. Bliss: A Comparative Perspective
While Colebrook and Deleuze emphasize the role of problems in growth and evolution, other philosophical traditions, such as those of Nisargadatta Maharaj, highlight the potential for growth through the acceptance and awareness of bliss and non-problems. This reflects a broader, rhizomatic view of philosophy where multiple pathways and perspectives interconnect and contribute to a more profound understanding of human experience.
Conclusion: A Rhizomatic View of Growth
In essence, while Colebrook and Deleuze highlight the role of problems in fostering growth, other philosophical traditions like those of Nisargadatta Maharaj emphasize the potential for growth through the acceptance and awareness of bliss and non-problems. This illustrates the interconnected and diverse nature of philosophical ideas, where multiple perspectives contribute to a richer understanding of human experience and growth.
Wu Wei: Effortless Action in Taoism
Lao Tzu’s concept of “wu wei,” often translated as “non-doing” or “effortless action,” is a cornerstone of Taoist philosophy. This idea doesn’t advocate for literal inactivity but rather suggests a way of being that aligns with the natural flow of the universe.
“Wu wei” implies acting in harmony with the Tao, the underlying principle that governs the cosmos. It means embracing a mode of action that is spontaneous and unforced, allowing things to unfold naturally without excessive interference or effort. By practicing “wu wei,” one avoids the strain and friction that come from forcing things against their natural course.
In this context, a master who practices “wu wei” is someone who achieves more by doing less. This person understands the rhythm and flow of life and moves with it rather than against it. As a result, their actions are more effective and harmonious, and they achieve their goals with minimal effort. This concept can be linked to the idea of growing through bliss or non-problems, as it emphasizes a state of being where stress and conflict are minimized.
Connecting Wu Wei to the Discussion of Growth
Connecting this to the discussion of growth through problems versus growth through bliss, “wu wei” offers an alternative path. Instead of constantly engaging with and solving problems, one could align with the natural order, allowing solutions to emerge effortlessly. This Taoist approach suggests that growth and fulfillment can arise from a state of peace, acceptance, and minimal interference, resonating with the broader philosophical idea that there are multiple pathways to development and enlightenment.
Rumi on growth
Rumi’s statement, “Christ is the population of the world, and every object as well. There is no room for hypocrisy. Why use bitter soup for healing when sweet water is everywhere?” can be seen as a profound reflection on the inherent divinity and interconnectedness of all things. This mystical perspective resonates with the Taoist principle of “wu wei” and the acceptance of bliss as a path to growth.
When Rumi equates Christ with the entirety of the world and every object within it, he suggests that divinity is not separate from the mundane but is immanent in all aspects of life. This view negates hypocrisy, as it calls for a genuine recognition of the sacred in every person and object, aligning with a state of effortless being and acceptance.
The comparison between bitter soup and sweet water highlights the unnecessary suffering and struggle we often impose on ourselves. Just as Taoism advocates for aligning with the natural flow and finding harmony through “wu wei,” Rumi encourages embracing the sweetness and ease that life offers. This approach to healing and growth suggests that peace, acceptance, and recognizing the divine in all can lead to profound transformation without the need for harsh measures or excessive effort.
In essence, both Rumi and the principles of Taoism propose that growth and fulfillment can arise from a state of harmonious acceptance and effortless action. They point to a way of living that recognizes the inherent divinity and interconnectedness of all things, promoting a path of sweetness and ease rather than conflict and struggle. This perspective enriches our understanding of how diverse philosophical and spiritual traditions converge on the idea of achieving harmony and growth through a deep alignment with the natural and divine order.
Other perspectives
Several philosophical, spiritual, and transpersonal concepts align with the approach of living through bliss, acceptance, and non-problematic thinking. Here are a few notable examples and their major proponents:
- Zen Buddhism:
- Concept: Zen emphasises mindfulness, meditation, and the direct experience of reality. It encourages living in the present moment and accepting life as it is without judgment.
- Proponents: D.T. Suzuki, Thich Nhat Hanh, Shunryu Suzuki.
- Stoicism:
- Concept: Stoicism teaches acceptance of the present moment and focusing on what is within our control. It encourages finding peace and contentment regardless of external circumstances.
- Proponents: Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, Seneca.
- Advaita Vedanta:
- Concept: Advaita Vedanta is a non-dualistic school of Hindu philosophy that teaches the fundamental unity of the self (Atman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman). It emphasizes the realization of this unity through self-inquiry and acceptance.
- Proponents: Adi Shankaracharya, Ramana Maharshi, Nisargadatta Maharaj.
- Transpersonal Psychology:
- Concept: This field explores the spiritual aspects of human experience and emphasizes the potential for growth beyond the ego. It focuses on achieving higher states of consciousness through acceptance and self-awareness.
- Proponents: Abraham Maslow, Stanislav Grof, Ken Wilber.
- Existentialism:
- Concept: Some strands of existentialism emphasize finding meaning and authenticity through acceptance of one’s existence and embracing freedom and responsibility.
- Proponents: Jean-Paul Sartre, Viktor Frankl, Søren Kierkegaard.
- Positive Psychology:
- Concept: Positive psychology focuses on strengths, virtues, and factors that contribute to human flourishing. It emphasizes cultivating positive emotions and acceptance to achieve well-being.
- Proponents: Martin Seligman, Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, Barbara Fredrickson.
- Sufism:
- Concept: Sufism, the mystical branch of Islam, emphasizes the direct experience of God through love, devotion, and acceptance of the divine will. It promotes a state of inner peace and unity with the divine.
- Proponents: Rumi, Ibn Arabi, Al-Ghazali.
These philosophies and their proponents advocate for an approach to life that emphasizes acceptance, presence, and harmony with the natural flow of existence, often leading to a deeper sense of peace, fulfillment, and awakening.
Tantra Philosophy
The Tantra approach, particularly as it is understood in the spiritual traditions of Hinduism and Buddhism, is another profound method that emphasizes living through acceptance, bliss, and an integrated experience of life. Here’s an overview:
Concept: Tantra is a spiritual tradition that seeks to unify the spiritual and the material, embracing all aspects of life as pathways to spiritual growth and enlightenment. It teaches that the divine exists within the world and within the self, and that spiritual practice involves recognizing and harnessing this divine energy. Unlike some ascetic paths, Tantra often involves practices that engage the senses and the body, recognizing them as vehicles for spiritual experience.
Key Principles:
- Non-Duality: Like Advaita Vedanta, Tantra posits that there is no fundamental separation between the sacred and the mundane, the spiritual and the material.
- Energy and Kundalini: Tantra often focuses on awakening and directing the kundalini energy believed to reside at the base of the spine. This energy, once awakened, rises through the chakras, leading to higher states of consciousness.
- Integration: Rather than renouncing the world, Tantra seeks to integrate and transform all aspects of life, including sexuality, emotions, and sensory experiences, into paths of spiritual realization.
- Ritual and Practice: Tantric practices often involve rituals, mantras, meditation, visualization, and sometimes physical postures or movements designed to align and awaken the spiritual energy within.
Major Proponents and Texts:
- Shiva and Shakti: In Hindu Tantra, the divine is often personified as the union of Shiva (pure consciousness) and Shakti (creative energy). The interplay between these forces is central to Tantric practice.
- Abhinavagupta: A philosopher and mystic of Kashmir Shaivism, Abhinavagupta wrote extensively on Tantric philosophy, emphasizing the experiential realization of the unity of consciousness and energy.
- Padmasambhava: In Tibetan Buddhism, Padmasambhava is credited with bringing Tantric Buddhism to Tibet. His teachings emphasize the transformation of all experiences into opportunities for enlightenment.
Modern Interpretation and Practices:
- Osho (Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh): A contemporary spiritual teacher who integrated Tantric principles into his teachings, emphasizing the acceptance of life’s pleasures as pathways to spiritual awakening.
- Daniel Odier: A contemporary Tantric teacher and author who emphasizes the direct experiential aspects of Tantra, including meditation, yoga, and ritual practices.
Living Through Bliss and Acceptance in Tantra:
Tantra’s approach to life through bliss and acceptance involves recognizing the sacredness of all experiences and using them as tools for spiritual growth. By fully engaging with the present moment and all its aspects—sensual, emotional, and intellectual—Tantra teaches that one can attain a state of unity with the divine. This approach rejects the dichotomy between the sacred and the profane, advocating for a holistic embrace of life as a continuous opportunity for spiritual realization.
In summary, Tantra offers a rich and complex path that aligns well with the idea of growing through acceptance and bliss. It emphasizes the integration of all aspects of life into a unified, sacred experience, encouraging practitioners to find the divine within the mundane and to use every experience as a means of spiritual awakening.
Conclusion: Embracing Multiple Pathways to Harmony and Enlightenment
In exploring the various philosophical and spiritual traditions that emphasize growth through acceptance and bliss, we see a common thread of harmony and effortless living. From Deleuze’s generative nature of problems to Lao Tzu’s principle of “wu wei,” and from the Tantric integration of the sacred and mundane to the mindfulness of Zen Buddhism and the rational acceptance of Stoicism, each tradition offers a unique path to personal and spiritual growth.
These diverse perspectives highlight that there is no single way to achieve fulfillment and enlightenment. Whether through the challenges and solutions of problems or through the peace and acceptance of bliss, each path contributes to a broader understanding of human experience. Embracing these multiple pathways allows us to appreciate the richness and complexity of life, finding harmony in the interconnectedness of all things.
By recognising and integrating these philosophies, we can cultivate a life of balance, where growth is not solely defined by overcoming problems but also by embracing the natural flow of existence. In doing so, we align ourselves with the deeper rhythms of the universe, achieving a state of profound peace and fulfillment.
Final thoughts
Although many traditions suggest that problems and suffering are essential pathways to growth, there is another way—one that embraces bliss, pleasure, and enjoyment. While life itself presents various challenges and problems, we can choose to grow through experiences of joy and fun. By integrating philosophies that highlight acceptance, effortless action, and harmonious living, such as Taoism’s “wu wei,” Tantra’s unity of the sacred and mundane, and Zen Buddhism’s mindfulness, we can cultivate a life that celebrates both the struggles and the blissful moments.
These diverse perspectives show that there is no single route to fulfillment and enlightenment. Embracing multiple pathways allows us to appreciate the richness and complexity of human experience, finding growth and harmony through both challenges and joy. By aligning ourselves with the natural flow of existence, we can achieve a state of profound peace and fulfillment, demonstrating that growth through bliss and fun is not only possible but profoundly enriching.
Tip: Choose Your Path to Growth
Every morning, we have a choice: to grow through the affirmation of life and enjoyment or through engaging with problems and challenges. It’s up to us. By choosing to embrace bliss, pleasure, and fun, we align ourselves with a path of harmonious growth and fulfillment.
As Rumi beautifully said, “Christ is the population of the world, and every object as well. There is no room for hypocrisy. Why use bitter soup for healing when sweet water is everywhere?” Let this reminder guide you to seek the sweet water of life, finding growth through joy and acceptance.