The teachings of Buddhism are centralized around the Four Noble Truths, namely;
1) Life is suffering. It is suffering because we go through pain that is caused by various factors; pain, disease, old age, etc.
2) Suffering is caused by our cravings and aversions. That means we want/expect people to conform to our expectations and we are disappointed when they don't.
3) It is possible to overcome suffering and be happy. This can be done by being content with what we have and trying to control our "cravings" of materialistic things that don't necessarily matter.
4) Suffering can come to an end by following the Noble 8-fold path to happiness. This includes constantly being aware of our actions and introspecting them daily in order to re-evaluate how we should lead our lives.
I believe that these four truths can lead one to find meaning in one's life because while suffering is inevitable, it is possible to still find happiness amidst all the pain if we learn to introspect our actions on a daily basis. I think that's what brings us happiness - introspection. If we are able to evaluate our actions and our short-comings, we can detach or pull away from things that have the potential to bring us pain and anguish. I'm not saying that it can be eliminated, but in order to attain the highest form of happiness that even Aristotle talks about, this might be a possible route to attain it. If we're able to eliminate our expectations, there is no room for disappointment.
Yes, I would agree to a certain extent that Aristotle would view meditation as a way to reflect upon our actions in order to mind meaning in them and to reflect upon how to better ourselves in the future. He even talks about the contemplative life as type of lifestyle that will bring the ultimate form of happiness to one's life.
ReplyDeleteHowever, I am not quite sure that Buddhist medication calls for one to reflect upon one's self (introspection). From my understanding, it is meant to empty the mind of all worldly thoughts and to simply be. Perhaps this is a misunderstanding, though, so I will not claim this statement as a fact. Perhaps someone else could clarify?