Most of the avoidable suffering in life springs from our attempts to escape the unavoidable suffering inherent in the fragmentary nature of our present existence. We expect immortal satisfactions from mortal conditions, and lasting and perfect happiness in the midst of universal change. To encourage this expectation, to persuade mankind that the ideal is realizable in this world, after a few preliminary changes in external conditions, is the distinguishing mark of all charlatans, whether in thought or action.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Much suffering comes from seeking eternal happiness in a changing, mortal world, a promise charlatans exploit.
- In plain terms
- People suffer by expecting perfect happiness in an imperfect world.
- What can you take from it?
- Accepting mortality reduces avoidable suffering caused by unrealistic expectations.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Is perfect happiness possible?
- How do we accept mortality?
Another view
It assumes all suffering stems from unrealistic expectations rather than external causes.
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