Turning the Wheel

Greed. Anger. Delusion.

Minimizing these three states was a primary focus of the teachings of the Buddha.

In not understanding that all things are dependent or "conditionally arising" as some choose to translate, we humans grasp on to that which is impermanent.

Trying to maintain a permanent hold on that which is by nature constantly changing is the source of dukha, or suffering.

Our lack of understanding propels us to desire more... more sex, more money, more objects, more stuff, more experiences.

Our disappointment with this never ending, escalating need for fulfillment results in anger and resentment...

The source of all of this is our delusion and ignorance of the nature of reality.

This helps me sometimes as I meditate on all the things that I see every day in the clinic.

Sometimes, it doesn't help at all.