We think that by protecting ourselves from suffering we are being kind to ourselves. The truth is we only become more fearful, more hardened, and more alienated.
– Pema Chodron
How is your guard up? Running from fear and suffering grants it control over us. Facing it, questioning it and understanding it shows that we are not afraid and then we can control the emotion.
Do not be troubled by the future: you will encounter it, if need be, with the same sword of reason in your hand that now serves you against the present.
-Marcus Aurelius
How do you view your future? Our focus should be on building confidence now. Use the present moment to cultivate a sense of strength before looking to the future. If you do this, your gaze will be tinted with courage and not with fear.
We think that by protecting ourselves from suffering we are being kind to ourselves. The truth is we only become more fearful, more hardened, and more alienated.
-Pema Chodron
How is your guard up? Suffering is a natural part of life. As such, walking alongside it while cultivating an understanding is more beneficial than simply ignoring it. You cannot learn from a teacher if you close your ears and eyes. Suffering can be meaningful if we do not protect ourselves from it, but instead, see it as a teacher.
The Pocket Philosopher 