When I first began studying the Buddha’s teachings,
and I’d come upon the word “Suffering”
I felt that it had to be something grandiose, and over the top…
like a Michael Bay action movie.
But I was mistaken.
Suffering can be VERY subtle.
Whenever we don’t receive what we desire,
when we desire it, that is suffering.
Whenever we don’t keep what we enjoy,
for as long as we’d like to, that is suffering.
Whenever we experience, that which we don't like,
that is suffering.
It is this subtle aspect of suffering that
renders it all pervasive.
Kind of like the stink that comes,
from a kitty pooping at three O'clock in the morning,
YET refusing to cover it up.
Though you may try to pull the covers over your nose,
the stench can NOT be escaped from.
Consider infants.
Every time an infant cries,
it’s because they are experiencing a facet of suffering.
Babies cry when they’re tired and require a nap.
Babies cry when they’re tired and have just arisen from a nap.
Babies cry when they’re hungry.
Babies cry when they’re thirsty.
Babies cry when they have gas.
Babies cry when they have soiled themselves.
Babies cry when they’re lonely.
Babies cry when they’ve had too much visiting.
What is the freedom the Buddha offers us?
Buddha does NOT offer us liberation from the mere presence of suffering,
BUT rather liberation from it’s tyranny!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8yW-pJJGfEA
What will you do to ensure that
suffering is NO longer the Boss of you?
The Friday series of weekly webinars begins January 7th.
May you and yours be
happy and healthy!
Om Mani Padme Hum,
.
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