"Letting go gives us freedom, and freedom is the only condition for happiness. If, in our heart, we still cling to anything—anger, anxiety, or possessions—we cannot be free." Thich Nhat Hanh
I'm always at my most unhappiest when I wish things were different than they are at this moment.
If I don't accept my job, then I'm going to be depressed until I get one that I like. Until I let go of the conditions that I don't like.
If there's something I need to tell someone, but hold back from doing it, I won't be free of that situation until I express myself.
No matter what I'm attached to in life if I don't accept it then I'm going to be miserable. I'll have no freedom.
If my son or daughter is a drug addict who's using I'm going to be very unhappy unless I accept that I have no power to control their bad habits. Life is what will teach the children. Once we accept that they must learn by experience we'll have freedom.
Sometimes we think we're supposed to feel bad when others suffer from addiction. And maybe it's natural to do so if we're close to them. But does it make sense for us to suffer along with them? To share in their misery. Offer to help them get clean - but if they turn it down- then set yourself free by realizing that you've done your best.
You also deserve happiness in your life.
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