#163: "We must not wish for the disappearance of our troubles..."

I've been reading further on the Four Noble Truths of Buddhism, notably the second one which describes taṇhā or "craving," as what ties humans to feelings of dis-ease and dissatisfaction. In other words, we spend a lot of energy craving things into existence -- things that make us feel secure or give us pleasure -- and, also craving for things to cease existing -- things that throw us off balance or cause us pain.

They can be very basic desires: wishing for good health, financial security, fulfilling work, an affectionate relationship. But the list can easily get longer, the desires more specific, and I can blame my suffering very easily on everything except my own craving. That person would respect me if I didn't have this pimple growing in the center of my face. I would have the energy to finish all of my errands if the weather weren't so gloomy. I would be able to sleep if only that dog would stop barking. Can you relate?

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