Solace in Suffering
In our relentless pursuit of progress, it is ironic that humans find themselves suffering in unprecedented ways. Despite the incredible strides we have made in scientific understanding and technological innovation, we seem to be grappling with an increasing sense of discontent and dissatisfaction. The complexities of modern life, the constant pressure to succeed, and the continual bombardment of information and stimuli have taken a toll on our mental, emotional, and even physical well-being. The very technologies that were intended to make our lives easier and more connected have, in many instances, exacerbated feelings of isolation, anxiety, and overwhelm. The fast-paced nature of modern life, the unending chase of material success, and the constant comparison through social media have created a culture that often prioritizes external validation over internal well-being. We have become accustomed to a certain level of discomfort, accepting stress, anxiety, and even unhappiness as the norm. As we continue to navigate this ever-evolving landscape, it becomes essential to delve deeper into understanding why we have become so accustomed to suffering?
Suffering or embracing pain can unintentionally ensnare individuals in a harmful ‘victim’ mentality, offering a fleeting sense of solace for the nervous system. It allows them to perceive problems as external forces, relieving themselves of responsibility and control. By adopting the victim role, it becomes convenient to attribute challenges to concepts like destiny, lifestyle, generation gap, or mindset. These terms act as shields, deflecting personal accountability and perpetuating the belief that circumstances lie beyond one’s influence. However, this mindset keeps us ensnared in a vicious cycle of blame, circling around the issues without addressing their true root causes.
Although the intensity of pain associated with assuming the victim role is undeniable, the journey of change can be even more excruciating. Change necessitates an internal transformation, which implies a symbolic death. To allow something new to be reborn, something within us must first perish. As we all know, death is often considered uncomfortable and seldom openly discussed. Even when an individual is dependent on life support and lies in a vegetative state, we employ all available medical knowledge to sustain their life, for letting go is profoundly challenging. Similarly, when we embark on the process of human revolution, as termed by Josei Toda, we must be prepared to confront the discomfort of releasing and relinquishing what no longer serves us.
To free ourselves and let go, we must confront and openly acknowledge the undeniable presence of our inner demons, fundamental darkness, or deep fears. It is crucial to cultivate a sense of comfort and familiarity with these aspects of ourselves, embracing them as an integral part of our being. Just as we accept and celebrate our beauty and grace, we must also take responsibility for our wounds and vulnerabilities. As Brené Brown beautifully said, “Vulnerability is the birthplace of innovation, creativity, and change.”. By lovingly embracing our wounded selves, we create the necessary space for transformation to occur.
To embark on this transformative journey, we must nurture our courage and take the necessary steps to embody a revitalized and empowered version of ourselves. It is akin to the phoenix’s remarkable rebirth from the ashes, or the earth enduring the harshness of winter to embrace the beauty and freshness of spring. Are we willing to face the discomfort and pain that comes with confronting our inner world, knowing that it paves the way for the creation of a more magnificent and fulfilling outer existence?
The journey of transformation becomes attainable when we embark upon it with unwavering faith — faith in our capacity to endure and persist through the inevitable pain, faith in our inherent ability to recreate ourselves, and faith in the guiding and protective forces of the universe that shall aid us on this path. As Gabby Bernstein reminds us, “The universe has your back!” This profound faith becomes our anchor, enabling us to remain steadfast in the process rather than succumbing to the urge to flee or resist. It beckons us to embrace the willingness to let aspects of ourselves perish to be reborn anew.
Are you willing to have the faith and courage to undergo the symbolic death that leads to profound rebirth?
