Being human involves feelings–at least for me and most people I know.  There are those that believe that feelings are all culturally instilled.  It does seem that feelings come from beliefs, and we certainly have had plenty of training in beliefs from before we were born.

It seems to me that emotional conflict arises when the belief smashes up against unexpected reality.  As they say, if I had no expectations, I would have no regrets.  How to have no expectations out of life?  Would that mean I never have conflicting feelings?  No matter how much I believe in heaven or reincarnation or even oblivion after death, wouldn’t I be sad to miss a friend or family?  And if I am so even-keeled to take things neutrally (isn’t that enlightenment to the Buddhists?), wouldn’t I be delighted to play with an infant or a puppy?  Even if I knew that their “cuteness” was culturally programmed?

Dunno.  My spiritual practice these days is to be aware and compassionate as I flow with the feelings and as I discover and watch the beliefs beneath them.  Accepting the gift of my life exactly as it is in each moment, ready to create a new day in a new way.  Resting in the recognition that “it came to pass, it didn’t come to stay.”  I release the fight and the debating society.

I relax on the Path rich with scented pines, soft with sun, soothing with shade, deep breathing the Divine.