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Our suffering is rooted in our attachments from "summary" of Buddhism Plain and Simple by Steve Hagen

Our suffering is rooted in our attachments. We suffer because we become attached to things that are impermanent. We cling to our desires and expectations, hoping that they will bring us happiness, but when they inevitably change or do not meet our expectations, we experience disappointment, frustration, and suffering. Attachments come in many forms - material possessions, relationships, beliefs, even our own identities. We become attached to the idea of who we are, and when that idea is threatened or challenged, we suffer. We hold onto our attachments tightly, thinking that they define us and give our lives meaning. But the truth is, attachments only serve to tie us down and create suffering. When we are attached, we are constantly seeking to protect what we have or to acquire more, and this leads to a never-ending cycle of desire and dissatisfaction. We are always looking outside of ourselves for happiness, never realizing that true contentment comes from letting go of our attachments and living in the present moment. In Buddhism, the goal is to cultivate non-attachment, or detachment. This does not mean becoming cold or indifferent, but rather letting go of our clinging and aversion. It means finding a sense of inner peace and contentment that is not dependent on external circumstances. When we are able to let go of our attachments, we can experience true freedom and liberation from suffering. By recognizing the role that attachments play in our suffering and cultivating non-attachment, we can begin to live more mindfully and authentically. We can let go of the things that no longer serve us and focus on what truly matters. In this way, we can find a deeper sense of peace and fulfillment in our lives.
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    Buddhism Plain and Simple

    Steve Hagen

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