The teachings of Ajahn Suchart. “Even you, yourself, will be subjected to the very same fate.”

The teachings of Ajahn Suchart.
“Even you, yourself, will be subjected to the very same fate.”

Question:  “How should I deal with my grief and suffering as a result of my mother's illness and mood swing?”

Than Ajahn:  “Suffering (dukkha) arises out of ignorance—not seeing the truth or accepting the reality.

People lack awareness and understanding of the impermanent characteristic of their bodies—the subjection to ageing, illnesses, and death that comes with birth. They also don't realise and accept the non-self aspect of themselves—the lack of control over their bodies as they wish.

Your suffering is due to your own desire for your mother to be well and at ease. You get upset from seeing her suffer from being ill and in pain. It comes down to your own lack of mindfulness and wisdom: your body is impermanent— birth, ageing, illnesses, and death are only natural and expected and not in anyone's control.

Your suffering comes from wanting your mother to be in a certain way. You have to stop desiring and accept that it's only a natural course of anyone's body. Even you, yourself, will be subjected to the very same fate. 

Taking that into consideration will help you quell your desires and your suffering will subside.”

“Essential Teachings”

By Ajahn Suchart Abhijāto
www.phrasuchart.com

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