Gaining Losses

Sometimes when you think about it what we gain we essentially will lose at some point in our lives.  I know this sounds bleak, but nevertheless it is true.  When we die, we have to leave things behind but it usually doesn't last long enough to get there.  What is the solution?  How do we overcome loss?  In many Eastern Religions, asceticism is practiced and can be the answer.  Asceticism is the practice of self-denial.  If we deny our desires, then we can't be affected by the loss. 

However, this seems too strict.  It is true that our desires do compel us to make decisions and such.  Our wants must be fulfilled.  To deny these desires takes a very strong will.  But attaining things and getting what we want doesn't make us weak.  I think how we respond to a loss is the ultimate evaluation of one's character.  "Losing" is bothersome.  We all know that but if we are to think about attaining happiness, then loss is something that cannot be allowed to consume us.  The problem is however, is that through life we gain so much so fast without thinking of the loss that is ahead. We are too wrapped up in fulfilling a need that we can't recognize what life would be like without it. 

This becomes a vicious cycle of gaining.  Once we attain what we desire, we are only left wanting more.  I'm not saying that human beings can't be content, I am concluding that being content is very difficult to maintain.  There are many reasons why this may be, but I think it may just be something inherent in all of us.  We dream of a better life.  We have hopes and wishes that need to be met.  And if they aren't we might as well conclude that we are left in despair.  There must be a way to get what we want and be left with the satisfaction of accomplishment even after it is gone.