Root Cause of Suffering

Many times in life, we are faced with adverse situations and often it is hard to pinpoint the root cause; sometimes we even think of it as a stroke of bad luck. It is very common to dread those situations and try to change things as soon as possible. Just wishing for the change is certainly naive; we know that we have to act, But is it better to guide those actions inwards or is it worthwhile to spend energy in changing the environment? Well, we recognize that we want to change the environment because insecurities and fears have started to creep into us. And the root cause of these negativities is always a strong desire for something, i.e. craving. If you didn't have a craving for anything, what would you be afraid of? Nothing. It is these cravings that create all the negativity. So when we are faced with an adverse situation and feel a little insecure or afraid, it is better to attack the main cause of the problem, your desires, rather than trying to change the environment to satisfy your cravings.

Meditation is simply the practice of this principle. You don't react even when your mind demands satisfaction of its cravings and slowly, you subside those cravings. Taking control of the mind, rather than being controlled by it, brings harmony in every step of life.