Acharya Prashant addresses a student's question about the culture of dating, clubbing, and relationships, and the associated fear of missing out (FOMO). He begins by humorously stating that if spirituality were to forbid such activities, no one would be drawn to it, including himself. He clarifies that the issue is not with the activities themselves but with the consciousness with which they are performed. For instance, there is no harm in dating, but the problem lies in whom you date. Dating a foolish person is the real issue. Similarly, partying is not inherently wrong; the session itself is a form of party. The problem is the kind of party one engages in. The speaker explains that spirituality is not against happiness (`sukh`) but is against false happiness that ultimately leads to sorrow (`dukh`). Its purpose is to lead one to `anand` (bliss), which is the highest, transcendental happinessтАФa joy that is fearless, unending, and does not have sorrow hidden within it. Our usual happiness is often fearful and dependent. For example, while partying, one might fear the party ending, or while dating, one might worry about the partner's brother showing up. This is a fearful happiness. Acharya Prashant emphasizes that life is a series of relationships, and one cannot live without them. The crucial question is not whether to have relationships, but from what center they arise. One must make the right choices, akin to choosing water over poison to quench thirst. Even liberation (`mukti`) is attained through a relationship, such as with a Guru or scriptures. He points out that our relationships are often based on an 'either/or' dynamic because we are incomplete (`apurna`). When we are incomplete, choosing one thing means sacrificing another. Spirituality, however, teaches completeness (`purnata`), which is infinite. From this state of completeness, one can engage with everything without losing anything. He concludes by stating that the problem is not living life but living it without consciousness (`hosh`) or understanding (`bodh`). To live life fully and freely, one needs consciousness. Spirituality teaches how to make the right choices, not to renounce life's activities. He cites Shri Krishna as an ideal example of someone who lived a full life, whose dating is renowned, and who could delight everyone without causing hurt. The goal is to learn to make the right choices in life, which is what spirituality facilitates.
