Daily Inspirational Message for December 11, 2013
Peace requires us to surrender our illusions of control. We can love and care for others but we cannot possess our children, lovers, family, or friends. We can assist them, pray for them, and wish them well, yet in the end, their happiness and suffering depend on their thoughts and actions, not on our wishes.
– Jack Kornfield
There is nothing like trying to parent teenagers and young adults to drive home the truth that no matter how much we may long to save others from making decisions that will lead to very difficult life lessons and experiences, in the end, trying to rescue others from themselves does more harm than good. It’s not really helpful to prevent someone from experiencing the natural consequences of their choices, for that just slows their journey toward the wisdom they so clearly need. Having faith means trusting that everyone struggles, and that this is ultimately beneficial, for it’s how we all learn and grow.
– Jack Kornfield
There is nothing like trying to parent teenagers and young adults to drive home the truth that no matter how much we may long to save others from making decisions that will lead to very difficult life lessons and experiences, in the end, trying to rescue others from themselves does more harm than good. It’s not really helpful to prevent someone from experiencing the natural consequences of their choices, for that just slows their journey toward the wisdom they so clearly need. Having faith means trusting that everyone struggles, and that this is ultimately beneficial, for it’s how we all learn and grow.