Addiction.

Perhaps it is unnecessary to say that Dhammic liberation is freedom from any form of addiction. Gross addictions are easy to identify, strong drugs like alcohol, nicotine and so called recreational drugs like heroin, cocaine and the like are obvious examples but there are more subtle and possibly more limiting  addictions that are not so easy to see.

The dependence on the idea that we are right and others are wrong. That we are 'nice' people and that our group, our gender our religion and social classification are seen to be superior and acknowledged as that. Emotional  dependence, to feel loved , to feel appreciated, to feel needed are some simple examples. 

But any dependence on something outside ourselves is doomed to failure and so in our Dhamma training we let go of that. We let go of our addictions. We grow up and become adults in the truest sense of the world.

Once we find the courage to completely 'let go' we are free, no longer seeking out happiness and security outside ourselves, but living peacefully and lovingly in a world where we are free and able and ready to respond to whatever presents itself in any moment.

Addictions do not bring peace and however you can argue for them, will always be a barrier to your liberation.

 

The wise person will be like an island,

independent and secure in their wisdom.

In this way they are sure to attain liberation.

(Dhammapada vs 236)

 

May all beings be happy.