Suffering and pain

How to deal with a difficult diagnosis :

 

Testing for HIV or for an illness that has a terminal tinge to it (or at least used to ), can be testing and bring much worry and fear to people. It is helpful to know that no matter what happens there is always hope and a way to deal with change.

 

1. Think of where you are experiencing suffering or adversity
2. Think of others who are experiencing the same situation . Try to feel empathy or compassion for them
3. How might this situation be useful to you. How might this circumstance help you grow or mature?
4. Try to feel grateful for the opportunity this suffering or adversity has brought you
5. How can you use your suffering to alleviate the suffering of others?

 

By focusing our attention on others we free ourselves from our own excessive self concern.