26/09/2026
The Wonderful Use of Suffering
Bitter medicine is hard to swallow. Bitter water is difficult to stomach.
In life, we all prefer joy and try to avoid suffering. But what if suffering is not merely something to endure? What if it can also become a source of wisdom, strength, and growth?
Buddhism reminds us that even suffering can have its “wondrous utility” — miao yong (妙用).
Here are six ways:
1. Bitter words can be beneficial.
The words we least want to hear may sometimes be the ones we most need to hear. Sincere advice may sound unpleasant, but if we can accept it with an open mind, it can save us from many unnecessary detours and mistakes.
2. Bitter flavors can nourish.
Sweetness is pleasant, but too much sweetness can become cloying. Bitter melon may be astringent, and bitter tea may be difficult to drink, yet both can nourish the body.
Likewise, a little bitterness in life can become nourishment for our journey.
3. Bitter intentions can be moving.
Parents, teachers, and spiritual teachers may sometimes offer stern words or seemingly harsh guidance. Yet behind such words may lie deep care and sincere concern.
In the Chan tradition, Xiangyan Zhixian awakened after Chan Master Guishan Lingyou refused to simply give him the answer. Chan Master Baizhang Huaihai likewise experienced profound awakening after Chan Master Mazu Daoyi pinched his nose.
Sometimes, the guidance that challenges us most deeply is the guidance that helps us grow.
4. Hard labor can cultivate virtue.
Society's progress depends not only on entrepreneurs and leaders, but also on countless people who build, carry, clean, repair, and perform other forms of physical labor.
There is no shame in hard work. Labor can temper the mind, cultivate humility, and build character.
We should therefore treat those who perform difficult work with courtesy and respect.
5. Diligent study leads to progress.
“Diligence is the path through the mountain of books; hard work is the boat across the boundless sea of learning.”
Whether in study, work, or entrepreneurship, there are rarely shortcuts. Progress comes through patience, persistence, and continuous effort.
After long periods of unseen cultivation, the fruits of our efforts will eventually appear.
6. Austerity can strengthen integrity.
The Buddha practiced austerities for six years in the Snow Mountains before attaining enlightenment. His disciple Mahakasyapa was renowned for his practice of dhuta, embracing a life of simplicity and austerity.
Of course, Buddhist practice is not about suffering for suffering's sake. Rather, hardship can become a way to strengthen our resolve, train the mind, and deepen our practice.
When we understand suffering, we may also become more grateful for the people and circumstances around us.
Perhaps this is the deeper lesson:
Suffering is not always something that simply needs to be escaped.
Sometimes, bitter words teach us.
Sometimes, bitter experiences nourish us.
Sometimes, difficult guidance helps us grow.
Sometimes, hard work builds our character.
Sometimes, perseverance brings progress.
And sometimes, austerity strengthens our resolve.
When we learn to see the value hidden within hardship, even bitterness can become a path toward wisdom.
What difficult experience in your life has taught you something valuable?
