Even when we feel like we're giving our best, there are times when success seems elusive, leaving us frustrated and stuck. Are these struggles something we simply have to endure until they resolve on their own?
No, in fact, by steering our minds in the right direction, we can free ourselves from this suffering. This approach not only helps us cope with difficult situations but also empowers us to transform our reality and open up new possibilities.
In this issue, we would like to share this insight with you.
The key is acceptance.
To begin, let's look at an excerpt from Chapter 5 of Worry-Free Living. (P.150)
The idea that trying to protect yourself actually creates suffering—accounting for nearly 90% of your pain—may be hard to accept at first.
However, upon reflection, you may begin to recognize the truth in this. This defensive mindset can be divided into two main types:
The Mind That Justifies Itself: This is the tendency to seek external reasons or excuses to justify oneself, such as saying, "If only I had someone's help, I would have succeeded," or "If that incident hadn't happened, I would have been fine."
The Mind That Attacks Others: This mindset often appears in people with a strong will. It includes thoughts like, "My grades didn't improve because the teacher was incompetent," or "Things didn't go well because I grew up in poverty." It shifts blame onto others or external circumstances to protect oneself.
When things go wrong, it's natural to feel the urge to justify oneself or blame others. However, this mindset only deepens our sadness and suffering. Why?
Because no matter how strongly we cling to self-defense, it doesn't change reality. No matter how justified our reasons may seem, they won't bring us closer to the ideals we once envisioned. In fact, people who constantly make excuses or blame others end up pushing those around them away. Even the angels in heaven might hesitate to offer a helping hand to such individuals.
So, how can we escape this suffering?
The key lies in accepting reality.
First, try letting go of the need to protect yourself. Take a deep breath and embrace the present moment as it is. Then, consider the following idea:
Let us share an excerpt from Chapter 2 of The Starting Point of Happiness. (P.45)
When faced with difficult realities, we often focus on what we lack. Comparing ourselves to others, we might think, "I don't have this," or "I'm missing that." These thoughts lead to defensiveness and, ultimately, suffering. But are we truly lacking so much? To answer this, we must remember that we all started from zero.
It's true that, compared to our ideals, there may be things we feel are missing. But each of us began life with nothing. From that starting point, we've grown, supported by the love and care of others, and we've made it to where we are today. When we reflect on this, we may realize that we've already been given so much, even if we once thought otherwise. Doesn't this alone lighten your heart a little?
As you deepen this reflection and look for what has already been given to you, you may start to notice possibilities you hadn't seen before. Your current reality may indeed be difficult. Yet, the time you have in this life—beginning from nothing—is still a gift. Are there blessings you've overlooked?
Now, we invite you to listen to Master Ryuho Okawa's lecture, "Feel the Miracle."
We believe that facing harsh realities is a gift from God. They are not meant to cause us suffering, but rather to serve as tools that refine our souls, much like a whetstone sharpens a blade. Have the courage to accept things as they are. Look for the keys to overcoming your challenges within the blessings you've already received.
Embracing this truth brings us into alignment with the will of the universe, opening the door to new spiritual enlightenment and growth.