Times are difficult globally; awakening is no longer a luxury or an ideal. Itโs becoming critical. We donโt need to add more depression, more discouragement, or more anger to whatโs already here. Itโs becoming essential that we learn how to relate sanely with difficult times. The earth seems to be beseeching us to connect with joy and discover our innermost essence. This is the best way that we can benefit others.
Pema ChodronAnxiety, heartbreak, and tenderness mark the in-between state. It's the kind of place we usually want to avoid. The challenge is to stay in the middle rather than buy into struggle and complaint. The challenge is to let it soften us rather than make us more rigid and afraid.
Pema ChodronMeditation is not a matter of trying to achieve ecstasy, spiritual bliss, or tranquillity, nor is it attempting to become a better person. It is simply the creation of a space in which we are able to expose and undo our neurotic games, our self-deceptions, our hidden fears and hopes.
Pema ChodronDo I prefer to grow up and relate to life directly, or do I choose to live and die in fear?
Pema Chodron