Bob Schwartz

It is reported that many Americans seem gloomy about a supposedly great economy.

The second Noble Truth of Buddhism is that suffering arises due to craving.

It’s that simple.

As for “supposedly great”, while aggregate top-line numbers for all Americans do look positive, there are details showing that everyday things like housing, food and gas are still shaky. Lots of people don’t feel the greatness.

Above and under all that, people compare what they have to what they want and expect to what they don’t have. Weighed and found wanting. Which is natural. But it is, according to Buddhism, and to other traditions (e.g., lilies of the field), a source of suffering.

So whoever you’re listening to—social media influencers and visionaries, Republicans who tell you that you’ve never had it worse or Democrats who tell you that you’ve never had it so good—stop listening for a moment. Then go back to having more or wanting more. We’re only human.

© 2024 by Bob Schwartz