Chapter Eight Summary and Analysis

Hanh feels we need to be mindful of our well-being and happiness, and understand what it is that nourishes our joy. When we appreciate our senses, our ability to smile, we can find conditions for happiness that are already available. In the first stage of the Third Noble Truth, we are not aware of freedom and happiness. Recognition of peace and joy, that well-being is possible, is the first turning. The second turning, to encourage ourselves to find peace and joy, involves recognizing the miracles of being alive. "We can put an end to our suffering just by realizing that our suffering is not worth suffering for," by facing the difficulties, and developing new happiness. Embrace and smile to suffering; since suffering and joy are both impermanent, transform garbage into flowers like an organic gardener. The third turning is...