The Third Noble Truth is simple: with the end of craving comes the end of suffering. Simple, but not easy. And while this truth points towards the rather daunting end goal of Buddhist practice – Nirvana – it might be easier to imagine it in more realistic terms. What might it mean to work toward the end of some cravings, toward the lessening of some cravings, so as to better enjoy the fruits of less suffering in this lifetime?
As Ajahn Chah said: “If you let go a little, you will have a little peace. If you let go a lot, you will have a lot of peace. If you let go completely, you will know complete peace and freedom. Your struggle with the world will have come to an end.”
In this Dharmette offered for the San Jose Insight Meditation sangha, Matthew shares his thoughts on the hopefulness of the Third Noble Truth.
