The Truth About Pain

Pain may act as a signal that something is amiss, be it illness, injury, harm or danger – and the need for help. So it’s natural for us to avoid what causes pain. Surprisingly, pain is least known for its potential to awaken us to the truth of its causes and thereby heal the mind. But in the Buddha’s teaching, understanding pain and the noble truths of suffering are core to freedom from it. In meditation, letting go ideas about pain helps us focus on the direct experience of its qualities. With the sharpening of the mental faculties, our mind becomes a clear landing place for wise insights and –  ultimately – awakening. Ottawa Buddhist Society retreat, Nov 20, 2025