“Suffering is not
enough. Life is both dreadful and wonderful. To practice meditation is to be in
touch with both aspects. Smiling (tenderly to our selves as we behold whatever
is arising in this moment of mindful self-reflection) means that we are
ourselves, that we have sovereignty over ourselves, that we are not drowned in
forgetfulness. How can I smile when I am filled with so much sorrow? It is
natural - you need to smile to your sorrow because you are more than your
sorrow.” ~ Thich Nhat Hanh