How to Face Difficult Times

Photo ~ Flickr jnm_ua

When faced with all the ups and downs of life,
Still the mind remains unshaken,
Not lamenting, not generating defilement, always feeling secure,
This is the greatest happiness.

~ Goutama the Buddha




Many of us face difficult times and these times can be disheartening and full of sorrow. There seems to be no hope and everything seems dark. Difficult times may present itself in many forms like some illness or disease to self or someone dear to us. It could also be in form of financial difficulty like a huge debt on us and the debtors threatening to take control of our property or suing us.

For some others, it may be the time when you have to go through the horrible phase of deteriorating relationship or a painful divorce. Lot of parents cannot seem to live with the fact that their own children whom they have raised with so much efforts love and time have almost abandoned them or do not even care to talk to.

So in times of difficulty what should be our approach? What can be done? Since ancient times wise men and philosophers have been thinking on meditating on topics like these. Here is what Buddhist and Hindu teachings say on facing difficult times.

This too Shall Pass
One of the Buddhist principals is non permanence. Nothing is permanent. We are always changing and so is the entire universe. When we are in good times while enjoying, remember that this time will also end, so when good times are over you will not feel sorrow since you were aware that this will be over. Similarly when in bad times remember that this too shall pass. There will be better tomorrow. This thought will will give you hope and strength to go through bad times.

One of the main reasons people visit astrologers, is they want to know when their bad times will pass. That gives them hope. Even if you do not visit any astrologer, remember that times will change.

I have myself passed tough times in past and come out of it. I am sure it would also be the case with most of you. One lesson I have learned and observed was I became very agitated and desperate but when thought that this time too shall pass I calmed down.

Karma
Just like "this too shall pass", another reason for difficult time as per Hindu and Buddhist beliefs is the past Karma. Karma is the intentional actions taken by us either during this lifetime or even previous births.

Whatever we go through is result of that result of the previous Karma. Therefore if we are suffering difficult times it is likely to be because of our past actions. This makes us accountable. Once we go through the consequences then that phase is over.

Karma may not always be some mystery also. For example if we have bad spending habits over a period of time we will run up with huge debt and have to face the consequences of those actions. This will encourage us to do good deeds and also wish no harm for others.

Difficult times also make us more aware, and raises our spirituality as we turn towards god. So while in difficult times get comfort from the fact that once the consequences of Karma are over, times will change. Remember This Too Shall Pass.

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