[Angela]

Originally Posted by Acting Like Godot

Angela believes that the extent is very great. Maguru believes the extent is much smaller. That is all.

To be clear, I believe the extent to which a person can choose her response to external circumstances is not just very great, but total.

Personally I think that the extent varies greatly from individual to individual. One can however cultivate a greater capacity to choose one's emotions (and also thoughts) in response to external circumstances.

Again, just to be clear, I think everyone has the same capacity to choose one's thoughts (which guide emotions) in response to external circumstances, but not everyone has the same perceived capacity. In other words, some people don't know their own strength.

It is very difficult to say what kind of external conditions constitute "great suffering" or "minor suffering".

There are no gradations, from my point of view. If you're suffering, you're suffering, and there's no one's suffering that is greater or more minor than yours. (one's.)

I love your story, ALG, and I love your Grandma! She's a wonderful example of someone who is willing to stop suffering in its tracks, and not leave it as a legacy for future generations. In fact, it seems her legacy for you has been one of boldness, love, abundance, and joy. I am extremely grateful to her for having that impact on you (and therefore, me.)