The idea that “what you seek is seeking you” has gained a lot of hype nowadays thanks to the popular concept of the law of attraction. This belief suggests that by focusing on what we truly desire, we can attract it into our lives. It’s a captivating idea, one that promises a life where our deepest dreams are within reach if only we do things right. It sounds beautiful, but here’s the problem.
Let’s remember that “the law of attraction” is a commodification of ancient wisdom that has roots in the teachings of Rumi, Buddhism, and Taoism. Films, books, and guides to success…
Rumi’s poetic words, “What you seek is seeking you,” capture the essence of this belief, reflecting a worldview where our desires are connected with the universe’s purpose. Similarly, Buddhism and Taoism teach that when we align ourselves with the flow of life, what we seek will naturally come to us.
At first glance, this idea is beautiful. But it’s pointless.
It paints a picture of a universe that is not only aware of our desires but actively guiding us toward them. But if we dig a little deeper, a question arises: In what ways is the universe really guiding each and every one of us? Not just Dalai Lama… When we consider this, we are told that things will magically appear as long as we align our thoughts and actions properly. When life is as smooth as silk, it’s easy to believe that the universe has our back. But when life gets tough, when challenges mount, and our desires seem out of reach, this idea can feel harder to relate to.
Here’s why it’s a pointless premise.
I believe we understand that our thoughts and actions matter in life. Duh! Why do we need a so-called universe to judge ourselves against when we do our best? To me, the self-help industry is using the universe to create another failing, but profitable doctrine. It’s become a plastic religion with a judgmental god.
“Your thoughts are not fully aligned yet… for you to get the Gucci bag.”
Sometimes, Jean-Paul Sartre’s dark thoughts bring light to life.
Sartre, the existentialist thinker, argued that humans are “condemned to be free.” This means that we are responsible for creating our own meaning in a universe that doesn’t provide it for us. Unlike Rumi’s warm-hearted message, Sartre’s view can feel brutal, but here’s the twist.
It suggests that the universe is indifferent, that there’s no grand design leading us to our desires. Sartre’s philosophy offers a freedom without judgment. It means that we are not bound by fate or a predetermined path. We have the power to create our own meaning, to define our own lives, and to choose our own way forward.
I think there’s a certain empowerment in this idea. Agree? It’s a recognition that while the universe may not be actively seeking our desires, we have the ability to pursue them with intention and purpose. Therefore, what the universe thinks about us doesn’t matter.
I smell an opportunity for exploration and growth!
Perhaps the wisdom lies in balancing both perspectives. Rumi’s words remind us to stay open to the possibilities, to trust that the universe might just be on our side. But Sartre’s philosophy encourages us to take control, to recognize that we are the architects of our own destiny.
Why limit our thoughts to one doctrine when life is simply more fun!?
Life is a mix of smooth and rough, of moments when things fall into place and times when we must carve our own path. Appreciating both the beauty of Rumi’s message and the strength of Sartre’s can help us navigate the complexities of existence, no matter what we seek.