Aparigraha could be translated as, "Thou Shall Not Covet." Fair enough, but how do we accomplish this on this plane of existence? This is a material world, where we see, smell, or feel, sensations, and material. Many people feel their entire existence is based on acquisition of material goods and relationships.
How often have we heard the words, "trophy wife" or "boy toy?" The rich know the pitfalls of shallow relationships. Many of them trade their intimate, but shallow relationships, in, faster than the middle class can change their cars.
They even refer to this in terms such as: Swapping, trading up, upgrading, or trading in. When our "significant other" is equated with material, we will never find happiness. This is a lesson for all of us to learn and know by heart.
Can you put a price on a good family, happy children, good health, knowledge, or love? No, you cannot, because they are priceless, and all of these wonderful things are free. If we are wise in our judgment, we will never take them for granted, and we will see the pitfalls of shallow relationships.
The thrill of material acquisition is quite human, but it creates a culture of consumerism. Each week, there is some new material need or want, but gratification is temporary. We can see the same behavior in spoiled children.
Life is not about the acquisition of "things." It is much more important to enjoy your family, friends, health, intelligence, and common sense. These are the treasures we already have, and we do not have to pay for them. A laugh, a smile, or "a pat on the back," makes life worth living.
Patanjali, and many wise Yogis before him, knew Aparigraha was an important Yama. The desire for material, someone else's spouse, or someone else's property, can cause many wrongs and destroy family bonds.
© Copyright 2007 - Paul Jerard / Aura Publications
Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, has written many books on the subject of Yoga. He is a co-owner and the Director of Yoga Teacher Training at: Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, MA. riyoga.com riyoga.com He has been a certified Master Yoga Teacher since 1995. To receive a Free Yoga e-Book: "Yoga in Practice," and a Free Yoga Newsletter, please visit: yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html
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