AFFLICTIONS ABOUNDS FOR THOSE WHO LACK EQUANIMITY
Master Jun Hong Lu: Many of us are constantly being tested mentally and physically. In reality, it is a reflection of our inability to liberate ourselves, and the lack of an equanimous view in life.
Many people frequently ask, “Why do I have to endure such injustices in life? Why do I have to go through this?” But when you think about it the other way around, “Why is it that I can’t endure this suffering? Why is it that I can’t tolerate such injustices? If others are able to do it, why couldn’t I?”
Let me illustrate with a simple example. Say, it is scorching hot outside. Others seem to be able to withstand the heat alright but why not you? This is because you are only thinking about yourself, your misery and your sadness. You feel extremely irritated but how about the rest of the people? Equality is when you see others able to remain unruffled, and you ask yourself, “Why is it that I can’t endure the same as them?” By doing so, you are essentially applying an equanimous mind to contemplate and observe yourself. It is through this practice that you are able to break free from the shackles of your self-imposed constraints.
Source: Baihuafofa160324, Master Jun Hong Lu’s Buddhism In Plain Terms (Radio Program), 24 March 2016