Suffering

Suffering is a unique dilemma; it is constantly present, but we need its presence to drive us to do better. Without suffering, we stay the same. We are idle. However, there is a threshold when it becomes too much, and it is stunting. When it causes us to revert to using negative coping strategies to soothe ourselves, that’s when your relationship with suffering must change. You have to sit with it, explore it, and ask questions. Why am I suffering? What causes me to suffer? Is it worth dwelling on the suffering? When we examine this, we see our clinging to things wanting to remain the same. Yet, things never stay the same. At this moment, the world and universe are in constant flux. This is very unsettling to some because you can never ‘drop the pack’ or relax. But, really, should you ever give into comfort? I say no. It's a death sentence. To stop moving is to die. If this seems too much, make incremental changes and strive for better and better each day until you arrive at your best self. In this effort, serve others and be devotional in your practice, and you will find peace.