There seems to be an idea in the minds of many religious people that because a thing produces pleasure it must necessarily be "bad." Or the belief that God likes seeing people unhappy and doing unpleasant things. And many of the most "religious" people frown upon the normal pleasures of daily existence. They act as if they are "too good" for life, "too pure" to enjoy any pleasure.

But does this truly align with a fulfilling life? Is joy something to be feared or avoided?

The truth is, pleasure is a natural part of the human experience. It's a gift, a reward for our efforts, and a vital component of our well-being. The ancient yogis understood this profoundly. They taught that all normal pleasures are tools at our disposal, but we must be their masters, not their slaves.

“Enjoy the normal and rational pleasures of life, but always retain your mastery over them, and never allow them to run away with you.” Yogi Ramacharaka writes. “And, always remember that true happiness comes from within, and that these luxuries and comforts are not necessities of the real self, and are merely things to be used for what they are worth.”

Imagine the freedom that comes with self-control. How different would your life be if you could savor the sweetness of pleasure without being consumed by it? If you could indulge without overindulging? This isn't about deprivation; it's about empowerment. It's about crafting a life where you're the captain of your desires, not a passenger at their mercy.

And how do you cultivate this mastery? Practice, practice, practice. Strengthening your ability to resist temptation, to choose wisely, and to prioritize long-term fulfillment over short-term gratification. Remember the words of Chuck Palahniuk: "The things you own, end up owning you." This applies not just to material possessions but to any pleasure that controls your life.

Live a simple life. Enjoy the pleasures that bring you joy, without getting attached to them. Without getting addicted to them. Without being controlled by them. Do uncomfortable things from time to time. Train your will regularly.

By mastering your desires, you're not denying yourself pleasure; you're enhancing it. You're creating a life filled with balance, freedom, and true contentment. Isn't that a far richer experience than a life lived in perpetual restraint?