Question: “I’ve had a tough 3 months people have pulled me down, torn me apart, lied and cheated, I have never felt so alone. And Lately I’ve been feeling like I’m not moving in the correct directions I’m lazy, sometimes moody and overall just sad. I feel like I over think things and almost like my mind isn’t my own sometimes. I use to meditate and always felt great afterwards but I’ve lost my passion. Do you have any encouraging words or motivation that can help me and in odd situation I’m in? Thank you”
Life is like ice cream. Sometimes you have to go through some really gross flavors to find your favorite one. It takes searching, experimenting and time to find the the most awesomest flavor you have ever put in your mouth. But sometimes in the end, what you were really looking for was plain vanilla.
So like plain vanilla ice cream, everyone has it or has a means of getting it, but we were so caught up in trying to find something different and unique, we completely overlooked the simplicity and delicious flavor of plain old vanilla.
Buddhism is the same way. People get into Buddhism trying to find the way out of their unhappiness and suffering. In reality, there’s no such thing as a way out (I mean there is, nirvana, but I mean like right now!). What makes suffering less suffering? Acceptance. We need to accept that we are suffering and that suffering is inevitable for anyone and everyone. When acceptance comes, peace with it follows, and it becomes easier to handle difficult situations as they arise. So instead of looking for the magic, complex teaching that’ll wash away all our sufferings, the solution is much simpler.
Smile and be well!