The amount of happiness you can hold is formed from the amount of suffering that has been your burden.
Ego often judges this adversity as bad, in fear of conflict to the comfort and stability of ones current regime or status.
Suffering carves a deep vessel in which joy can replenish and pour plentiful.
This vessel enables authenticity, vulnerability, creativity or relatability – often driven from being lost, alone, heart-broken, depleted or exhausted.
Both emotions support one another, providing an opposing value and purpose.
“Most people have a hard time letting go of their suffering. Out of fear of the unknown, they prefer suffering that is familiar.”
~ Thich Nhat Hanh
Rather than running away from your suffering; acknowledge, embrace and befriend it.
Some of our most difficult times can be the most helpful, shaking us with vigilance to bring forth platforms of possibility.