|
Most of us don't face the reality of impermanence or death. This is because we forget that our lives are transitory, that we quarrel with each other, as if we are going to live for ever. But, if we face the reality of death, our quarrels will cease and we should have peace of mind. We will then realize the folly of fighting when we ourselves are doomed to die. Excited by emotions our thoughts being clouded, we cannot see the truth about life. When we see the truth, however, our thoughts become free of emotions.
The essence of Buddhism is facing the reality of death and imperma-
nence. Why we suffer is because we run away from reality, carried away by emotions. Emotions are in conflict with reality; therefore, they are bound to be thwarted by reality. Not only anger but all self-
centred emotions come to an end when we face the reality of death. It is a realistic thought that ends all unhappiness. Those who do not face
reality in this Buddhist way, continue to be frustrated and angry, and suffer in consequence.
|
