We are as capable of love and joy as we are of sorrow and pain. We don't get to avoid the latter if we allow the first. We can delay suffering, but we don't escape it-- it becomes the bandaid off slow or quick dilemma.
Be a curious, compassionate observer of your pain. Look for the information it delivers.
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The Guest House
This being human is a guest house.
Every morning a new arrival.
A joy, a depression, a meanness,
some momentary awareness comes
as an unexpected visitor.
Welcome and entertain them all!
Even if they are a crowd of sorrows,
who violently sweep your house
empty of its furniture,
still, treat each guest honorably.
He may be clearing you out
for some new delight.
The dark thought, the shame, the malice.
meet them at the door laughing and invite them in.
Be grateful for whatever comes.
because each has been sent
as a guide from beyond.
-- Jelaluddin Rumi,
translation by Coleman Barks
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