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