PAIN

 There are so many ways in which we can experience pain.  Even loving can be painful, because we are exposed to vulnerability and feel no longer able to exist without the one we love.

Perhaps this is why we sometimes run away from those who could have a positive effect on our lives.  We want to grow in love, yet not in pain.

Running away from situations that will cause us to suffer is normal, unless we possess saintly qualities.  No big deal.  In every event of our lives we are taking steps towards becoming a better and more informed person. We call this maturity.

However, when it comes to suffering, we can and will shy away from the pain that we are presented with.  Most normal people do not want to suffer, yet common sense teaches us that suffering is part and parcel of being a complete person.

I can cherish the idea of being in love, and the wonderful awareness that love will add to my happiness, yet, I still can and often do, run away from the pain that comes with love.  Is there a soluliton, I wonder?

For every joy that comes into our lives, there will be a price to pay. If we can allow the joy we experience move us and guide us, then we will gladly accept any and all the pain we know that comes with a joyful heart.

There is no way we can reach the top of a mountain without effort and pain, yet the joyful experience when we reach the top will be our reward!