Q: I often find it hard to meditate'. because of contact with the unpleasant, specifically fear of what we cannot control and might bring pain. It can be a challenge. I wonder: How can we cultivate the mind to be able to meditate when times are hard, when contact with the unpleasant is common, or when we are totally afraid?

A: Yes, it is really a challenge to face the fear. An Unpleasant feeling is the result from the mind in expectation that it is higher than in reality.

Only accept the situation and let go of it. And finally, we have to face the fear that is the root. 

When brave and accept even the death that is the most cause, it will gradually disappear.  Such great courage will be manifested in an understanding of dukkha(suffering), anatta(no-self), and anicca(impermanence): See Dhamma Letters No. 14 ~ No. 21.

As we allow our minds to calmly and patiently know and see this magical pattern as it plays itself out in absolutely everything, over and over and over again, something in us starts to let go of the conditioned habit of grasping and pushing away. (See Dhamma Letter No. 4)

It will very likely take some time to see the first fruits of our bold courage, but if we hang in there and keep nurturing that seed of faith, slowly, slowly, gradually, gradually, we become more and more able to stand firm and unshakable.

May you be free from any suffering!

May you be free from any danger!

With Metta,

Ayyā Kosallā
Edited by Euna Bonovich 

If you have any questions related to dhamma & meditation, please feel free to ask. You can reach Ayya Kosalla directly at Bhikkhuni.Kosalla@gmail.com. 

법에 대한 질문이 있으신 분은 위의 이메일 주소로 질문을 남겨주세요.

위빠사나명상의 마음관찰에 대한 논문을 한글 원본으로 읽고 싶으신 분은 클릭해서 다운로드 받을 수 있습니다. (네이버에 PDF 첨부)

The Korean Dhamma Letter is here 담마레터.

Bhikkuni Kosalla Vipassini resides in Mahabodhi Meditation Vihara in Arizona, USA. Donations are gratefully accepted, whether you provide needed requisites for the monastic, or offer funds. If you are inspired to donate, you may do so.

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Buddha Sāsanaṁ Ciraṁ Tiṭṭhatu! 
May the Buddha’s teachings last a long time!

​Bhavatu Sabba Sotiṁ ca Maṅgalaṁ ca!!  
May everyone be led on the path of peace and blessing!!

Sādhu Sādhu Sādhu !