Here is the good news: the Buddha diagnosed our condition. Understanding what was causing our suffering, he looked for and found that a cure does indeed exist. This cure is often referred to as nibbana, [1] but this is not always a preferred designation. Nibbana can be easily mistaken for just another state of being, which in itself becomes desirable. Once attachment arises again, the cure does not work. In this respect, nibbana can become as much of a trap to a Buddhist seeking liberation as samadhi can be a trap for the yogi.
States of calmness, joy, and happiness do arise, but if we become attached to them we are still subject to suffering. It is possible to end our suffering, even if it is not possible to end the sensations that precede it. The cure the Buddha discovered is described in his last truth.
(Next: The Eightfold Way )