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When one is young and healthy, and in a relatively privileged position, it is so easy to become infatuated with life. It always seems like the first time, and so we blissfully allow ourselves to be beguiled by the fascinating appearance of the pleasures at our disposal (it is interesting to note that the word ‘fascination’ derives from the Latin fascinum, meaning a curse)

Then, when the truth of this life, everywhere incessantly beset by the danger of illness, the hardships of old age, the inevitability of separation from all that is dear, and death, unfolds before us, even at that point one can be so intoxicated as to continue clinging to this open wound. No matter the tears and blood shed, time and time again, we cling to these heavy burdens, to this weight, as if it were a safe haven.

If the Lord Buddha had not appeared in the world to point out the path leading to the uncreated, to the supreme and perfect Nibbana where all pain and suffering are stilled in unconditional peace, I have no idea how we could manage.

But since he did appear, expounded the teaching, and since that teaching, by virtue of its purity and perfection, has spread and continues to spread even in the West, adapting to circumstances, then we can rejoice and, mindful of the very real dangers of this cycle of endless rebirths, not delay our practice.

“Rebirth has no known beginning. There is no first point in time when sentient beings began to wander and be reborn, shrouded in ignorance and bound by craving. For so long have you endured suffering, torment and ruin, filling the graveyards. This is more than enough for disillusionment, detachment and liberation to arise in you with regard to all conditions.”

- Anamataggasaṁyutta