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Cases Quote by Paramahansa Yogananda

“It is a great mistake to regard a certain object as pleasurable in itself and to store the idea of it in the mind in hope of fulfilling a want by its actual presence in the future. If objects were pleasurable in themselves, then the same dress or food would always please everyone, which is not the…” quote by Paramahansa Yogananda
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“It is a great mistake to regard a certain object as pleasurable in itself and to store the idea of it in the mind in hope of fulfilling a want by its actual presence in the future. If objects were pleasurable in themselves, then the same dress or food would always please everyone, which is not the case.”

Paramahansa Yogananda

About This Quote

Source Book: Autobiography of a Yogi, 1946

Pleasure comes from desire, not the object itself; seeking fulfillment through future possession is misguided.

In simple terms: Pleasure is desire‑driven, not inherent in objects.

Key Takeaway

Focus on present experience, not future acquisition.

Themes

desire pleasure mindfulness

Mood

reflective calm

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • consumerism
  • relationship goals
  • personal growth
  • mental health

Key Concepts

Buddhist philosophy psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you differentiate between genuine need and imagined desire?
  • Can present moments replace future‑focused cravings?
A Different Perspective

Objects rarely provide lasting satisfaction; over‑reliance on future acquisition can cause disappointment.

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