The Buddhists describe transcendence is freedom from suffering, detachment from life and death as we know it, and the attainment of ultimate peace and enlightenment known as Nirvana.

I think the notion of transcendence in this context is both profound yet paradoxical to the way many of us live our lives and, to some extent, believe it is part of the fundamental elements in having a successful life. In life, we very much pursue connection and love for one another, cherish family, and thrive in communal environments. Attaining a state in which we separate ourselves from these attachments is a difficult concept to comprehend and is met with a form of hesitancy, especially in my mind, anyway.

However, transcending ego, materialism, judgment, or comparison, I believe, can provide a more feasible and understandable opportunity to achieve success in the search for happiness. Within the realm and description of the word, I think there is a thought-provoking, or more so, a conscious-provoking idea of allowing ourselves to separate from aspects of our lives that dictate our perception and potentially sway us from our true path.

Is transcendence in Buddhism incorporating detachment in the pursuit of fulfilment and happiness itself?

How can we transcend elements of ourselves to achieve more peace, fulfilment, and happiness?

Where do we draw the line between necessary and optional attachments?

There are many questions within this set of questions, but within the concept of transcendence, there are certainly many answers to be found in our search for happiness.

Thanks,

Dean