Suffering is optional

Pain is a physical sensation that informs us that something needs attention. It may be the result of an injury, a medical condition, or an emotional response to a traumatic event. We seek out the attention that is required so that we can move on with our lives. When the pain is chronic, it may be necessary to secure treatment over a longer period of time. Suffering involves a conscious constant focus on this pain and the need to share this information with others. The pain is often based in reality, and it is magnified by the intensity of the sharing. The listener is often helpless to do anything to alleviate the pain. If you should find yourself in a position where you are focused on the sharing of your pain, ask yourself what it is that you want or need from the other person. If the response is that you just want someone to understand what you are going through, think of constructive ways to do that. We all seek out information to explain what we are experiencing. However most of the time we are not asking people who can provide that expertise. Look to find someone who can help you move out of the suffering. It can be even more debilitating than its cause. What can you do to take action on the times you believe that you are in suffering mode?