On the New Attributes of Success

The powerful of this world used to measure their status — and compete with one another — in luxury: grand houses, private jets, yachts, expensive cars. Now the criteria have shifted somewhat, and the emphasis has moved to spiritual growth and inner practice.

These days it matters more which retreat you went to, how many days you spent on a Vipassana, which rare shrub you ate for enlightenment, how high the nails were that you walked across, which ascetic vows you took on, and which foods you cut from your diet to save the planet. Exchanges like — “Have you met the Dalai Lama?” — “Why yes, I have!” no longer sound made up.

Enlightenment and spirituality, in any form, are at peak trend right now.

There’s a funny contradiction in it, though: practices originally meant to nurture humility and fight pride are now being eagerly used by the well-off to pump it up. Exclusivity, uniqueness, one-of-a-kind — and the more, the better! Flying a private jet to some remote corner of the world to take part in spiritual practices looks like the summit of success to your friends, colleagues and partners. Ayahuasca shamans travel on call, running ceremonies at private villas for a chosen few who want to solve their problems and unravel the mysteries of the universe.

Not long ago, up at a mountain camp, grilling lamb ribs on the coals, I asked a couple who’d just arrived: “You’re not vegan, by any chance?” (hoping to share the extra portions). The answer was “Of course!” — as if there could be no other way.

Today, if you don’t practice yoga, don’t do acupuncture, don’t meditate twice a day and aren’t connected to the universe 24/7, it can seem strange, even abnormal. I’m exaggerating, of course. I meditate myself, if not regularly, and read books on Eastern philosophies. I just want to remind us of the true aim of these practices — knowing yourself, accepting reality as it is (not as we’d fantasize it), and taming the ego.

There’s an upside, too: today’s spiritual pursuits potentially create less material waste and, on the whole, lean toward peace and good.

Here’s to all of us finding our own techniques for harmony with the world and ourselves — without turning them into a contest, a brag, or a way to feel superior to others! 😎