The Heroic Quest

Note: The author uses the concept of “Emergence” in lieu of “Renunciation”

Definite emergence as a natural instinct comes from deep within as the seed of the intention to individuate, like the instinct of a check to break out of the egg in which it has been safely held. The transition of emergence is not an easy one, and one can become stuck. It may be tempting to just remain safe, surrounded by comfortable conditions that take away the demands to face life’s challenges and individuate. Alternately, emergence into the challenges of a world measured by material wealth and work success creates an illusion of emergence. Unfortunately, in our culture, the pressures of the world are very great. We do not live in a supportive environment that retains close community. The independence and individuality our culture demands lead to the chronic alienation that freedom brings. It is any wonder that we have developed highly sophisticated mechanisms and strategies to retain some of the security we fear losing? Our institutions, our materialistic culture, and our need for endless insurance policies may seem like a source of security in our individuality. Instead of genuinely emerging to individuate, however, we become caught in a constant struggle to maintain this illusion of security.

Emerging from this illusion, we take a step across the threshold, facing our fear and insecurity. This requires an inner decision: the willingness to truly wake up and face ourselves, to engage in life knowing that the source of suffering or happiness lies in our own minds. We are then confronted with the reality that we, on one level, choose the life we create. We could try to live in denial and remain unconscious, but at some point we must see that the solution to our emotional troubles lies within. To embark on this path requires more than trying to change the world to make it safe or comfortable, and more than trying to transcend it with “spiritual ideals. It requires the willingness to become a warrior on the road, facing the challenge of the mind and its habits. The heroic quest begins when we take up this challenge.

Rob Preece
from The Wisdom of Imperfection; The Challenge of Individuation in Buddhist Life