Existence of Suffering

In the Oneness Movement (OM) framework, suffering is an inherent part of the physical experience, deeply tied to the nature of having a physical body that exists within the finite conditions of the material world. To fully explore the concept of suffering, OM recognizes the role of the Circle of Needs and Fulfillment (CONAF), which is central to each individual’s experience in the physical realm. The necessity for the body to compete for finite matter and energy creates dynamics of winners and losers and is particularly influenced by low consciousness (LC) and Non-Oneness Mentality (NOM), which emphasize division, materialism, and selfish gain.

The Role of Creation and Its Design

While other creations are inherently loving and peaceful, our physical reality is shaped by the conscious desire for stimulation, competition, resilience, and domination, which create the inherent need to consume matter and energy. This need intrinsically leads to harm and destruction, forming the foundation of suffering. NOM and LC arise naturally from this design and intensify suffering through deliberate choices and actions, rooted in ego and division.

1. Suffering and the Physical Body’s CONAF

Each physical body has its own CONAF—a set of fundamental needs such as safety, affirmation, competence, stimulation, superiority, meaning & purpose, and sex drive. These needs must be met through engagement with the material world, which is inherently limited in resources. This limitation introduces suffering because:

• Not all needs can be fulfilled equally: Inequality arises when resources are finite, leaving some without while others thrive.

• Conflict emerges: The pursuit of fulfilling needs often leads to competition, creating power struggles and exploitation, especially when resources are scarce.

2. Winners and Losers in the Physical Realm

The competition for resources inevitably results in winners and losers, establishing hierarchies that perpetuate suffering.

• Abuse of Power: Those with greater access to resources or power may exploit those with less. This is exacerbated in NOM-driven systems, which prioritize competition and division over unity and cooperation.

• Scarcity and Fear: Fear of scarcity drives individuals to act out of self-preservation, often leading to harmful decisions that increase suffering for others and the environment.

3. The Role of LC and NOM in Amplifying Suffering

LC and NOM magnify the struggles of physical existence by fostering behaviors rooted in selfishness and disconnection.

• LC’s Self-Centered Focus: LC prioritizes personal survival and success, often at the expense of others, leading to greed, exploitation, and indifference to suffering.

• NOM’s Systemic Impact: NOM promotes division and materialism, creating systems that exploit people, animals, and the environment. These structures deepen cycles of suffering by valuing short-term gain over collective well-being.

4. Suffering as a Catalyst for Growth

While suffering is an unavoidable part of physical existence, OM views it as an opportunity for growth and transformation. Through suffering, individuals can:

• Awaken to Truth or Oneness: Recognizing the illusion of separation can lead to a greater understanding of interconnectedness and unity.

• Develop Compassion: Personal suffering often fosters empathy for others, motivating individuals to take action to alleviate collective pain.

• Transcend Material Attachments: Facing the impermanence of material pursuits can inspire a shift toward spiritual fulfillment and deeper purpose.

Conclusion: Understanding Suffering in the OM Framework

In the OM framework, suffering is a natural consequence of the physical world's design, driven by competition for finite resources and the inherent need for consumption. While LC and NOM amplify this suffering through selfishness and exploitation, suffering also serves as a powerful catalyst for growth. By awakening to Oneness, fostering compassion, and transcending material attachments, individuals can move toward higher consciousness and align with a more spiritually harmonious existence.