How can we find meaning in pain and suffering? It is often helpful to remember that some things happen for no reason and it’s not always our fault. Being stuck in shame and blame will only lead us deeper into the suffering. Finding meaning when we are stuck in the mists of suffering and depression can be difficult. Often controlling the emotions though meditation is the first step. Titrating back and forth between looking deeply at the pain and taking refuge in the breath. Remembering there is safety of the present moment. Eventually we give up the desire to push the pain away, and are ok with saying “This happened to me,” and letting it wash over us. The work is in connecting with others who hear us and can hold our pain. Meaning may emerge in unexpected places not necessarily related to the suffering. Pain and suffering are universal, but ultimately personal suffering brings out our compassion for others.