Sunday, August 25, 2013

Smile into Suffering


Suffering is not enough. Life is both dreadful and wonderful. 
How can I smile when I am filled with so much sorrow? 
It is natural--
you need to smile to your sorrow because you are more than your sorrow.
Thich Nhat Hanh

When I find myself overcome by despair or fear
Remembrance of truth helps me walk through
Without succumbing to the darkness

During times of extreme trial
I've covered my walls with
Words of strength, hope and encouragement
Reminders of the bigger picture
Of the temporary nature of events and experiences in this life

I read them aloud to myself 
Until the truths they contain
Seep in and settle my soul
'Til I'm able to release the fear
and rest in the solid goodness of Love

Smiling at oneself is so very important
Grace and tenderness
Loving kindness

Thich Nhat Hanh talks of smiling at your fears 
in recognition, acceptance and love

When I remember
When I lovingly smile at my internal woundedness
. . . my human frailties
And extend compassion and love to all aspects of self
(and others)
Peace returns

A simple smile can change everything
Truths remembered can save us from depths which threaten to overwhelm

So, I remember.
I smile.  I speak truth.
Until the words are part of me
Seeds taking root

Through it all
Whenever we can smile within ourselves
and remember the precious beloveds that we are
We will more quickly return to the sunshine
on the other side


Sometimes your joy is the source of your smile, 
but sometimes your smile can be the source of your joy.
Thich Nhat Hanh