Four Noble Truths

1. Everyone suffers
2. We suffer due to desire/wanting
3. There is an end to suffering
4. The eight-fold path is the way to end suffering

Today we discussed the first of the Four Noble Truths at length - do we agree with it or not?  General consensus was yes, it is true.  Suffering is a part of life.

I asked a few questions and most classes had some good discussion before finishing the review guide.  We talked about whether we only believe it's true because we've never met someone who hasn't suffered.

I also asked how many students suffered because there was something they wanted to do, and they weren't allowed.  Many raised their hands and talked about video games, and staying up late.  I brought up Joseph Kony and child soldiers and asked if a kid that went through that would have the right to be offended.  Would he be justified in saying, "Not being allowed to play a video game?  That's not suffering.  You have no idea of what real suffering is."

To get the extra credit, read and discuss the blog with an adult.  Have the adult sign a scrap of paper and write the following on it: "I am trying."