Why are we all so afraid? What calms fear?

October 9, 2023   |   4 Comments

Audio only version is here.
Meditation practice begins at 16:44.

Hello, wonderful Open Heart Project. I hope you are well and finding joy in your world.

Last week, I launched a series of weekly emails about the foundational Buddhist teachings on the Four Noble Truths. They are:

  1. Life is suffering. (uh-oh)
  2. The cause of suffering (grasping)
  3. The cessation of suffering (it’s possible!)
  4. The Noble 8-Fold Path (steps you can take to alleviate suffering)

We began a week ago with Truth #1 and now we move on to #2 which explains where suffering comes from.

I hope this brings benefit to you and your world! Do let me know.

Thoughts? Love to hear them.

Much love, Susan

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4 Comments

  • Posted by:  Colette

    Even though I’ve been practising the dharma for almost 5 years, I absolutely love the way you bring it forward with such ease, clarity, humour and common sense (no b.s., no nonsense). This week’s instalment is, for me, a refreshing reminder that I still grasp, aggress and zone out regularly. I apparently already “know all this stuff”, yet I forget the basics and get way off piste (kudos to Mara the roadblock). So thank you for today’s talk: my sit will be focused on seeing my lastest new graspings and aversions with more clarity and wisdom. And hopefully getting grounded with reality, instead of catastrophizing whatever new shiny drama lands of my lap. Lots of love to you!

  • Posted by:  David

    Great explanation! One of your best.

  • Posted by:  Christian

    Hi Susan,

    Your comment about lying down on the couch and watching tv made me laugh out loud. It also makes you “approachable” and “normal/real” and thus trustworthy in your talks, which is why I watch your videos and listen. Thank you for making them and offering them up. Best wishes to you.

  • Posted by:  Betsy

    Thank you, Susan, for this teaching. I don’t think I ever realized the link of the 3 poisons to the 2nd Noble Truth. So helpful. Also, to link how we grasp because of fear of the first Noble Truth. And, lastly how Nihilism and Eternalism link to calming groundlessness. So much to ponder from your talk. Much appreciation.

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