Hi, today I want to share an interesting topic, namely "Not all desires must be fulfilled", The main reason why I chose this topic is because many people are competing to fulfill all their own desires, Such actions are not part of mature behavior, do you know why? Because the first condition if someone wants to be an adult is being able to delay instant gratification, as long as someone only lives for personal pleasure, it's the same as someone eating their passion to be enthusiastic, It is important to remember that the feeling of enthusiasm and the feeling of instant pleasure are very different, so where is the difference between the two? Instant gratification builds weakness, while enthusiasm builds strength along with the ability to endure discomfort, even though Having desires is a natural part of human nature, we are not born for fulfilling the desire, Here's a further explanation of why not all desires are not obligated fulfilling:
Is Fulfilling Desires Mandatory?
- Not always. In many cases, fulfilling desires is optional and depends on various factors such as financial ability, impact on others, personal values, and life priorities.
- Wants vs. Needs: It's important to distinguish between wants and needs. Needs are basic things that must be met for survival and well-being, such as food, water, shelter, and clothing. Wants are things we desire but are not essential for survival, such as luxury goods, entertainment, or certain experiences.
Limitations in Fulfilling Desires
1. Financial Capacity:
- Fulfilling desires must be in line with your financial capacity. Don't go into debt or sacrifice basic needs just to fulfill a momentary desire.
- Example: If you want to buy a new car, consider whether you can afford the monthly installments without disrupting your family's finances.
2. Impact on Others:
- A desire should not be fulfilled if it could harm or endanger others. Consider the social and environmental impact of fulfilling your desire.
- Example: Purchasing a product that is produced through labor exploitation or damages the environment is an example of fulfilling a desire that negatively impacts others.
3. Personal Values and Morals:
- Fulfilling desires should be in line with your personal values and moral principles. Avoid fulfilling desires that conflict with your beliefs.
- Example: If you value simplicity, you might reconsider your desire to purchase unnecessary luxury items.
4. Life Priorities:
- Prioritize meeting basic needs and long-term goals before fulfilling desires. Allocate available resources to the more important things in your life.
- Example: Setting aside money for your child's education or investing for the future is more important than buying the latest gadget.
5. Health and Well-Being:
- A desire should not be fulfilled if it could harm your physical or mental health. Consider its impact on your life balance.
- Example: Fulfilling the desire to work overtime to earn more money can sacrifice health and time with family.
Religious and Cultural Perspective (Indonesia, East Java)
- Religion: Many religions, including Islam, which is dominant in East Java, teach people to live simply, share with others, and not overindulge in worldly desires.
- Culture: Javanese culture emphasizes the importance of harmony, simplicity, and self-control. Indulging in excessive desires is considered unwise and can disrupt social balance.
Conclusion
Fulfilling desires is the right of every individual, but it must be done wisely and responsibly. Consider your financial capabilities, the impact on others, your personal values, and your life priorities before fulfilling each desire. This way, you can achieve a balance between enjoying life and living a meaningful life.