I’ve struggled with some issues recently. Maybe that’s just a condition of modern life. Given the perspective of world events, what do I have to complain about? My family, friends and home are all intact and safe. I have enough to eat and clean water. I do not live in the flood plain.

I have been reflecting on a quotation I read in the book “Awakening Joy”. Awakening Joy is a course in developing a person’s capacity for well-being and happiness. The companion book (2010) is by James Baraz and Shoshana Alexander. I wonder if I can learn to face challenges with the grace and equanimity advised by the 8th-century Indian scholar, Shantideva:

If there is a remedy when trouble strikes,
What reason is there for despondency?
And if there is no help for it,
What use is there in being sad?