You Can't Always Get What You Want

Needs vs. Wants: A Divine Perspective Through the Lens of Faith

Introduction

In the grand tapestry of life, the distinction between needs and wants often becomes a guiding theme in our human experience. As eloquently captured by The Rolling Stones in their iconic song “You Can’t Always Get What You Want,” the lyrics remind us that while we may have desires and aspirations, the fulfillment of our true needs may manifest in unexpected ways. This analysis delves into the spiritual implications of needs versus wants, emphasizing the importance of faith, surrender, and understanding our soul contracts in navigating life’s challenges.

1. Understanding Needs vs. Wants

1.1 Defining the Concepts

- Needs: These are fundamental requirements for our survival and well-being, such as food, shelter, safety, and emotional support. From a spiritual perspective, needs can also encompass personal growth, healing, and connection to the divine.

- Wants: Wants are desires that go beyond our basic necessities. They can include material possessions, achievements, or experiences that we believe will bring us happiness or fulfillment. However, unlike needs, wants are often subject to personal whims and societal influences.

2. The Divine Provision of Needs

2.1 Soul Contracts and Divine Guidance

The concept of a soul contract suggests that before we incarnate, we agree to certain lessons and experiences that will facilitate our growth and development. These contracts are uniquely tailored to our souls’ journeys, often dictating how our needs will be met, even if the fulfillment is not immediately apparent or delivered in the form we desire.

- Faith and Surrender: In this context, having faith means trusting that the universe, along with divine forces, will provide for our needs—even when they do not align with our wants. This surrender allows us to release control and accept that we might not always see the bigger picture.

3. Life’s Lessons: The Rolling Stones’ Insight

The Rolling Stones’ refrain, “You can’t always get what you want,” serves as a profound reminder of this human dynamic. The song speaks to the inevitability of unfulfilled desires and the deeper understanding inherent in that experience. The message resonates with spiritual teachings:

- Acceptance: Embracing the idea that life may not unfold according to our desires cultivates acceptance. By acknowledging that our needs may come in forms we do not anticipate, we learn to navigate life’s complexities with grace and resilience.

- Redirection: Sometimes, the unmet wants reveal pathways to our true needs. The journey through disappointment often leads us to deeper understandings about ourselves and what we value most.

4. The Role of Faith

4.1 Cultivating Trust in the Process

Faith acts as a cornerstone in the understanding of needs versus wants. It invites us to trust in the divine timing of our lives. The realization that everything happens for a reason can be liberating, allowing us to maintain a sense of peace even amidst trials.

- Spiritual Verse: As stated in Philippians 4:19 (NIV), “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” This verse highlights the promise of divine provision, reinforcing the idea that our needs will be addressed in alignment with a higher purpose.

4.2 Surrendering to Divine Will

Surrendering to divine will means relinquishing the desire to dictate the terms of our existence. It encourages letting go of the need for control and embracing uncertainty—a powerful faith exercise in trusting that the universe will provide what we require for our growth.

5. Conclusion

The relationship between needs and wants offers a profound opportunity for spiritual understanding and personal growth. The journey through unfulfilled desires can lead us to a deeper connection with ourselves and the divine. By embracing faith and surrendering to the wisdom of our soul contracts, we can cultivate the awareness that our needs will be met, even if not in ways we initially envision.

The Rolling Stones’ timeless message resonates deeply within this context, reminding us that while we may not always get what we want, life has a way of providing what we truly need. It calls us to maintain faith, remain open to life’s lessons, and trust that all will ultimately be well.

References

1. The Rolling Stones. “You Can’t Always Get What You Want.” Let It Bleed. Decca Records, 1969.

2. The Holy Bible, New International Version.

3. Tolle, E. (2005). A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life’s Purpose. Penguin Group.

4. Williamson, M. (1992). A Return to Love: Reflections on the Principles of A Course in Miracles. HarperCollins.

5. Goldsmith, H. (2004). The Infinite Way: The Complete Text. Acropolis Books.

This analysis of needs versus wants highlights the importance of faith and the understanding that our needs will be met in alignment with our divine purpose, even when we don't receive what we initially desire. As we navigate our journey, let us remember to trust in the process and embrace the lessons that life presents.

Julie O’Hara

THANK YOU for reading my work. I am a global nomad/permanent traveler, or Coddiwombler, if you will, and I move from place to place about every three months. I am currently in Chile and from there, who knows – probably Argentina? I enjoy writing articles, stories, songs and poems about life, spirituality and my travels. You can find my songs linked below. Feel free to like and subscribe on any of the platforms. And if you are inspired to, tips are always appreciated, but not necessary. I just like sharing.

YouTube Top Song List.

https://www.YouTube.com/results?search_query=julia+o%27hara+top+songs

Amazon PlayList

https://www.amazon.com//music/player/artists/B0D5JP6QYN/julia-o'hara

Spotify PlayList

https://open.spotify.com/artist/2sVdGmG90X3BJVn457VxWA

You can also purchase my books here:

https://www.lulu.com /spotlight/julie-ohara

I am also a member of Buy Me A Coffee – a funding site where you can “buy me a cup of coffee.”

https:www.buymeacoffee.com/JulieOHara