The sensations of being alive may be threatening and a bit confusing, and we may develop a powerful reaction or survival instinct in relationship to them. We might prefer to ignore them, but if we ignore the reality of pain and pleasure as part of life, then when we encounter difficulties or more extreme situations, we panic much more. That’s when we spill our cup of tea.
From “Life Force,” in Mindfulness in Action: Making Friends with Yourself through Meditation and Everyday Awareness, page 78.