In "Mindfulness in Plain English," Henepola Gunaratana emphasizes the human tendency to expend great effort in pursuit of comfort and security. This pursuit often leads people to suppress their fears, diverting their energies toward immediate relief rather than addressing deeper issues. As a result, individuals often find themselves caught in a cycle of temporary fixes that do not provide lasting peace or fulfillment.

Gunaratana highlights the importance of confronting our fears instead of avoiding them. By acknowledging and understanding our vulnerabilities, we can cultivate true inner peace and resilience. Mindfulness serves as a tool to help individuals break free from this cycle, encouraging self-awareness and acceptance rather than the relentless quest for external assurance.