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ADDICTION Embracing nihilism … constantly. A powerful physiological need that dominates absolutely. ‘Altering’ the mind regularly while diminishing its power to function. A daily activity that undermines what you can be, want to be, should be. Escaping as often as possible for as long as possible; not wanting to return. A lonely, narrow, dead-end road on which apparent bliss blurs alternate routes. A propensity for repeatedly experiencing pleasure and escape despite deleterious effects. Allowing chemicals to obliterate the most potent tool you possess: Your ability to reason. Along with hatred and vindictiveness one of the most insidious, self-inflating, self-defeating states you can wallow in. Playful, arrogant, ‘invincible’ ego triumphing over reason in a futile attempt at uniqueness which always leads to alienation and eventual destruction. Perhaps refuge from the onslaughts of the world can become the guarded fortress for a soul that has given up. Perhaps a truly loving heart can never be subject to addictions; perhaps being ‘other’ oriented makes it impossible. Perhaps we ‘lose ourselves’ when we allow ‘escape facilitators’ daily reign; perhaps they will dictate who we are and what we are about. Perhaps our drive for acceptance can lead to participating in ‘mind-altering’ activities which can supplant individual priorities with group rituals. Perhaps we are always tempted to avoid or ignore responsibilities; perhaps using ‘liberating’ substances to release stress will always be an option. Perhaps obsessions and addictions effectively undermine resolve; perhaps muddled minds know little of accomplishment, joy, peace, love … a meaningful life. Perhaps the joy of living, enjoying the endless variety the world offers, provides us with enough challenges that the very thought of being tied to one deleterious habit is absurd. Perhaps when we worship self, elevating the ego to the only ‘important one’, we close avenues to caring; perhaps this leads to loneliness and ‘emptiness’ which finds relief in self-indulgence and concomitant addictions. Perhaps the only way to overcome an addiction is to find a purpose beyond self; perhaps pursuing meaningful goals will lead gradually to self-esteem; perhaps having pride in this accomplishment can overcome ‘temptation’. Perhaps we must always be vigilant and not allow pleasures and ‘reality obliterators’ to become ‘our reason for being’; perhaps our power to choose and act thoughtfully should never be diminished by expedient ‘escapes’; perhaps if we wish self-annihilation we should ignore this advice. contribute some of your own?? ESSAY ON ADDICTION by EDWIN O’SHEA RETURN HOME ©2007-2008 Edwin O'Shea and definingyourworld.com. All or part of only one topic, including all definitions and essay, may be used without written permission. Please see full copyright notice on home page.