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Buddhism teaches that life
is characterized by dissatisfaction. Life is
difficult. It is noteworthy that the Buddhists
get this aspect of living right from the very
beginning – don’t expect an easy life. It is
such an important aspect to keep in front of us
that it is the first of the three dimensions of
living.
The people who expect life
to be easy are constantly complaining and upset
about every little inconvenience and problem.
Those who expect problems are grateful when they
don’t have problems, or have only minor ones,
and they face their problems head on. This is
of course a much healthier way to live your
life.
Although life may be
challenging, God is going to take care of you.
We have to learn to let Him do this, because if
we work at solving everything ourselves, we will
get in the way and interfere with what He is
trying to do. What really matters is how you
feel about the difficulties and the overall
sense of things during the trials you are in.
If you can tell there is a reason for them and
that you are being led through them, then it is
very possible you are on the right path, and God
is indeed leading you. If you feel lost in the
trials and tribulations, you may need to really
search God out to determine if the path you are
on is the right one. I can’t imagine anything
worse than going through difficult times,
serious tribulations, and it be because we are
NOT listening to God rather than because we ARE
listening to God. Remember, if life is
difficult because you are following God, there
will be great meaning and significance in the
lessons. It may or may not lead to better
times, but regardless of this, you will find
deep meaning and satisfaction in and during the
trial.
Consider Your
Perspective On Things
Men are disturbed, not
by things, but by the principles and notions
which they form concerning things… When
therefore we are hindered, or disturbed, or
grieved, let us never attribute it to others,
but to ourselves; that is, to our own
principles.
The Enchiridion, EPICTETUS,
135 A.D. (Translated by Elizabeth Carter)
Here are some things to
remember as you learn to in 3D, starting with
understanding difficulties, part of the basis
for your ability to love God, love others and
realize your dreams:
·
Life is going to be full of
challenges and difficulties – expect nothing
different.
·
Meet the challenges life gives you
head on.
·
The difficulties you encounter are
designed to make you stronger. Soldiers are not
trained by sleeping in a feather bed.
·
The problems you deal with will
likely give you the basis and background you
will need later on to help someone else.
·
When dealing with problems or
difficulties, consider your perspective on
them. Try changing the way you think about them
and see if the problems themselves change,
perhaps into blessings.
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