Consumerism is deeply ingrained in the psyche of most Americans. Not only are we rewarded for spending money, we are cajoled and encouraged to do so. The advertising industry, which is itself a hugely profitable business, is paid to inform people that what it has is not enough.
In fact, what each person has is enough. Sin is not a Buddhist concept in the way that Westerners understand it. Sin, as Buddhism implies, is what stands between an individual and the fusion in Oneness that will convey bliss. Greed can be seen as a sin, because this emotion will strengthen feelings of division within the individual.
Emotion will strengthen the perception of lack individually. In truth, this does not exist. Nor is poverty a virtue. Poverty will surely create the illusion of lack, when in reality it can only be the universal cry of “I want”, of the infantile mind.
Consumerism is an artificial system that has been created for the manipulation of the many by the few. Nowadays, as consumers live in their crowded homes with limited space and huge debts, the nonsense of consumerism is an easy argument. Ten years ago, at the height of the consumer mindset, the person who suggested moderation would not have been taken so seriously.
This unfolding of fortunes is the embodiment of the abstract concept of letting go to discover more. The more we try to hold on, the further we get away from our true nature and the Oneness that is bliss.
The individual who understands the value of peace, satisfaction, and intrinsic self-worth can be the recipient of both physical and emotional breadth. The need to buy material products to prove their worth is irrelevant.
The lack of material possessions, after the necessary food, shelter and clothing, leaves a huge space to delve into abundant nature, peaceful sleep, pleasant contemplation and activities with friends and family.
And the lack of debt needs no discussion.