The Buddha was a genius at recognizing the source of our trauma and teaching methods to overturn it.

[Eva Libre]

The Buddha was a genius at recognizing the source of our trauma and teaching methods to overturn it. When we encounter a difficult person spewing venom, we either retaliate with anger, or run away in fear. The Buddha taught us to cherish these encounters. For they offer a rich fabric allowing us to weave a beautiful mind and heart of tolerance, paving the way to enlightenment. Tolerance fully developed becomes love and compassion. Love and compassion become Bodhicitta. And Bodhicitta becomes enlightenment. Recognizing the pain of others to such an extent that we cannot bear it, deepens our experience of love and compassion. This is like the mother’s love for her sick child. At the same time, ignorance clouds our mind. Appearances seem so solid, independent, objective, and real, as if they indeed existed from their own side. The Buddha taught they are like illusions. They are not solid and independent as they appear. Rather, things are dependent on a mind that names them. Appearances are like water in a mirage upon closer inspection. They vanish because there never was water. Ignorance is like a house of cards blown away by the wind of wisdom. Bathe in the wisdom and bliss. Emaho!

Barry Kerzin