The Delusional Series
Compiled according to the teachings of the Master
Author: Fafu
The Delusional Series: Part 8 –Illusory 13
When one is in pain, how can they magnify it? When sorrow arises, should one exaggerate it, perhaps by overindulging? In times of illness or suffering, one is instructed to savor and fully experience these sensations. Through this intense contemplation, the duration and intensity of the pain are said to increase. However, if a vicious dog were to suddenly appear, threatening one’s life, the original pain would instantly recede. Why? Because the mind is no longer focused on the initial suffering. By savoring and contemplating pain, one magnifies it; conversely, by disregarding it, one diminishes it. When pursued by a fierce dog, one perceives nothing else. Thus, the mind has the capacity to both amplify and diminish suffering. While this principle may be intellectually understood, true mastery requires practical application.
When overwhelmed by suffering, one may seek temporary relief in indulgence or distractions such as watching videos. While these activities may be deemed as unproductive, they serve to shorten the duration and intensity of the suffering by diverting one’s attention. If one were to fully immerse oneself in these distractions, the sorrow would dissipate entirely. Through such experiences, one begins to comprehend the impermanent nature of all phenomena as taught by the Buddha. However, if one were to dwell on these impermanent experiences, they can still cause significant suffering. Thus, suffering arises from attachment; without attachment, there is no suffering.