The historical Buddha, Shakyamuni (565-486BC) taught that we live lives characterized by difficulties. These difficulties result from our inability to see things as they are. Our preferences and prejudices influence how we see and engage the world resulting in difficulties for ourselves and others. The resolution of difficulties through cultivating a mind that sees things as they are is the Buddhadharma. Shinran Shonin (1173–1263 AD) saw himself as a being mired in his own foolishness, bound to the continued experience of difficulties. He found hope in the Vow of Amida Buddha, that assures all beings of the resolution of difficulties. The assurance of Amida allows us to see our own foolishness. With a deepening awareness of our foolishness we live with gratitude for the assurance of Amida.