We will explore how the Buddha’s teachings map onto the challenges that many face navigating this arena of life. Concrete practices and suggestions will be offered.

Pain is a given and suffering is optional. Mindfulness of unpleasant feelings, such as pain, can transform pain into fertile soil for wisdom and for freedom from suffering to arise.

The recording starts with Ajahn describing the word cultivation and his suggestions as to how one can cultivate the most direct animate experience we have? Q1 06:53 Why do you make the distinction between the heart and the body? Can you elucidate the qualities of the heart please? Q2 13:06 I've read that the refuge is an awakening to reality because the unconditioned is reality. How do we awaken to the unconditioned? Is it not unformed and unoriginated? 24:38 Q3 how to answer the angel question what is the meaning of life? What do you believe our purpose is as human beings? 27:48 Q4 I detach when confronted by emotions avoid, suppress, don't discuss. What do you recommend to facilitate reconnection and healing. A related question: There's been a lot of mention of dissociated or dispassionate reactions. Is not a big risk of becoming detached and disassociated from life? 34:53 Q5 How can I manage equanimity when in the midst of raw grief, pain etc I'm left rudderless at sea. 40:52 Q6 You mentioned parami satta. Can you review them please?

Mindfulness of feelings plays a crucial role in our daily life and practice. The arising of feelings is beyond our control but mindfulness of them can make a difference between being in bondage and being free from suffering.

The cultivation of metta for a dear person seems easy. However, one must watch out for the ‘hidden’ defilements of either attachment & lust or worry & grief. Hand out as many Metta Candies as possible.