This talk was given as part of the series “Strengthening Mindfulness.” Buddhism is the study of the processes of the human mind and body, so we can discern what the patterns are that lead to more suffering and less suffering, respectively. For many of us, the so-called ‘afflictive emotions,’ such as anger, anxiety, despair and envy, are the most common experiences of suffering. However, in our practice, it is not our aim to get rid of these emotions. Rather, we are training ourselves to become aware of these emotions, for they are usually deeply ingrained habits reacting to what’s pleasant or unpleasant with clinging or aversion. This awareness then allows us to shift the way we respond to what’s happening in the present moment, so we can find peace and ease with things as they are.