Lifestyle changes concerning Buddhism 4

Few would argue with the fact that many of us suffer from difficulty within life. There are none that I personally know of who have had such a smooth ride that nothing has upset them. In fact, one of the main points accepted within Buddhism is that life IS unsatisfactory. But how to turn this fact into practical dealing with difficulties that arise may be a difficulty within itself.

I was beginning to read and study the Buddhist ideas at the same time as a major eruption of difficulties occurred. Whilst this assisted me in accepting the first Noble Truth that life sucks, it was some contemplation and much practice and experience later, before I can now report that I currently stand at 80-90% understanding of the other 3 Noble Truths!

I seem to have led a fairly dramatic life. From a simple start in a Christian home within a small village on the South Coast of England, I shot into migration, a failed marriage, single parenthood, an overseas lover who would not live with me, and many an adventure. I did not deal well with many of the changes that I was presented with, using my objection of injustice as my reason to remain fighting.

It was not until I learned the depths and truths of karma that I understood these troubles as having arisen due to my own fault. I blamed society, governments, and many other people for problems that were erupting in my life. It was 'others' not treating me naturally and fairly that I viewed as cause to my problem.

Once I had learned much of Buddhist principles and practices, I was able to see that it might be my own fault, originally if not currently. This did not stop my seeing injustice as injustice, nor recognizing Mother Nature's laws as superior to mankind's legislation; however, it led to my accepting what came my way without fighting against it.

At first, I was rebellious, then saddened and distressed, but eventually I developed the ability to accept my karmicly caused problems, and try to maintain a level mindedness below their stormy onslaught. Whereas I have yet to fully accept personal injustices, I currently can handle far more whilst retaining equanimity and peace.

I will continue this discussion my next post.