This quote by Joko Beck suggests that many people engage in various activities throughout their lives as a way to mask or suppress fundamental feelings of unease and insecurity about existence. These individuals often feel a sense of restlessness and seek constant distractions or achievements to avoid confronting the deeper questions about life's purpose and meaning.
At its core, Beck’s statement delves into human psychology and philosophy, highlighting how people can spend their entire lives trying to ignore or suppress existential fears rather than addressing them directly. This avoidance may manifest in different forms, such as obsessive workaholism, constant consumption of entertainment or material goods, or even substance abuse. By continuously distracting themselves, individuals can live without ever truly examining the reasons behind their anxieties and seeking genuine peace and fulfillment. The quote encourages a profound self-reflection to understand these fears and how they shape one's behavior.
Joko Beck is an American Zen Buddhist teacher known for her unconventional approach to teaching Buddhism, which often includes humor and direct challenges to conventional wisdom. Her teachings emphasize the importance of present moment awareness and addressing life’s complexities head-on rather than avoiding them. This quote encapsulates a key aspect of her philosophy: recognizing and confronting existential anxieties can lead to greater personal growth and inner peace.
