1/16/07: Feeling Bad & Suffering

Most of us are addicted to feeling bad. We tell ourselves we don’t want to, yet we keep doing it. We have been doing it for so long that even though it hurts, we find comfort in it.

There is a false perception that feeling bad makes us nobler, deeper and more deserving. But feeling bad does not solve any problems, overcome any challenges or make anything or anyone better.

Somehow we have picked up the belief that if we just suffer enough, if we feel bad enough for long enough, that we could earn happiness. As though happiness were a right only given to those who deserve it.

Happiness is not a right, nor is it something to be earned with enough suffering or sacrifice.

Happiness simply exists for everyone who wants it. It is available to anyone at anytime regardless of the degree of suffering one has experienced.

For those great leaders who have endured suffering, it is not their suffering we admire. It is their inner resolve and strength to overcome their circumstances despite their suffering. Do not mistake suffering for nobility. There is no nobility in suffering.

Let go of your reasons to feel bad. Good does not come from feeling bad. Good comes from feeling good. You can decide to feel good right now, without enduring another moment of feeling bad.

Happiness is presented to you right here, right now. Take it.