Art Quote by Rick Hanson
““The point is not to resist painful experiences or grasp at pleasant ones: that's a kind of craving - and craving leads to suffering. The art is to find a balance in which you remain mindful, accepting, and curious regarding difficult experiences - while also taking in supportive feelings and thoughts.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Buddha’s Brain, 2009
Balance mindfulness, acceptance, and curiosity toward pain while also embracing supportive feelings.
In simple terms: Accept pain, welcome support.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate mindful balance.
Themes
mindfulness
acceptance
curiosity
balance
Mood
thoughtful
encouraging
Type
psychological
practical
When to use this quote
- stress management
- therapy
- self‑care
- meditation
Key Concepts
craving
suffering
mental health
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you stay curious amid difficulty?
- What supportive thoughts help you now?
A Different Perspective
Hard to stay balanced during intense distress.
![“[I]f you can be with the pleasant without chasing after it, with the unpleasant without resisting it, and with the neutral without ignoring it - [...] that is an incredible [...] freedom.” quote by Rick Hanson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/519/rick-hanson-10793_freedom_i-f-you-can-be-with-the-pleasant-without_67835.jpg)
![“[K]eep in mind the big picture, the 1,000-foot view. See the impermanence of whatever is at issue, and the many causes and conditions that led to it. See the collateral damage - the suffering - that results when you cling to your desires and opinions or take things personally. Over the long haul…” quote by Rick Hanson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/294/rick-hanson-10793_big-picture_k-eep-in-mind-the-big-picture-the-1-000_2003328.jpg)
![“Letting go of ill will does not mean passivity, silence, or allowing yourself or others to be harmed. [...] There is plenty of room for speaking truth to power and effective action without succumbing to ill will. [...] In fact, with a clear mind and peaceful heart, your actions are likely to be…” quote by Rick Hanson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/701/rick-hanson-10793_neuroscience_letting-go-of-ill-will-does-not-mean-pas_496486.jpg)
