For the last 10 days or so, I have not been in the best of health. There are thoughts that are not likely to come to us in a state of perfect physical well-being, in which we tend to think of this body as a tool that will always be available at our service. But when illness sets in and renders us helpless, our pride and confidence in this body are easily shattered. For some, this leads to utter disappointment and hopelessness. For others, this paves the way to complete surrender to God, thus opening the door to His limitless kindness and healing. 

When faced with excruciating pain, we understand how blessed we are to be in our habitual state of well-being, free from illness and suffering. At that moment, all we seek is relief from that overwhelming pain even for a fleeting moment, and all the riches and pleasures of this world seem worthless in comparison. That is also an occasion for us to affirm and realize that pain, just like pleasures, cannot persist for ever. It has a beginning and an end. It is a passing sensation, and is not us. We just have to learn to endure it. In Bhagavad Gita (2:14), the Lord says:

मात्रास्पर्शास्तु कौन्तेय

शीतोष्ण सुखदु:खदा:

आगमापायिनो अनित्या:

तान्  तितिक्षस्व  भारत  

O son of Kunti, sensations that give rise to the impression of heat, cold, pleasure and pain, [by nature] appear and disappear, and are non-permanent. O scion of Bharata, endure them [with even-minded tranquility]. 

All our experiences in this world, which we classify as desirable and undesirable, thus leading to enjoyment and suffering, follow from our own karma acquired over this and previous lives. Nobody else is responsible for our troubles, and nobody except ourselves can alleviate our suffering. Once we fix this thought deeply in our hearts, it leads to a tranquility that helps us face and accept all experiences with courage. Those who blame others for their own misfortunes are only making it more miserable for themselves. 

Finally, for a person who is intoxicated with pride and spends his life focusing only on gratification of senses, a painful experience – no matter how crushing – that turns his mind inwards, towards their true self, is the greatest blessing. Material joys and accomplishment, on the other hand, if they cloud our wisdom and deter us in our spiritual pursuit, are the vilest curse that can be cast upon us. In short, the only way to say whether an experience is good for us or bad is to see if they turn us towards God or way from Him. It is better to live even a single day pursuing our true goal, than spend ages following the mirage of worldly ambitions