In life, we frequently try to avoid pain, believing that this avoidance offers relief, but once we experience pain, we often find that the only solution is to confront it. The analogy of someone falling off a boat illustrates how struggling to stay above water can worsen the situation. Instead, we must acknowledge our pain and allow ourselves to be carried by it, finding a sense of acceptance in the midst of our struggles.
This process of surrender is essential to developing faith, as it requires us to trust in forces greater than ourselves. Just as fallen leaves gracefully float on water surfaces, surrendering to our circumstances can provide unexpected support. Nepo's insights remind us that embracing our difficulties can lead to deeper understanding and resilience.