This talk examines popular strategies for behavior change such as willing ourselves into compliance and analyzing our history. And it contrasts these "old ways" with the strategies of Buddhist practices.
In our practice, we aspire toward a kind of wholeness, with no part of our life left out. In this talk, we explore two ways of developing more of such wholeness - (1) through connecting metta with mindfulness and wisdom, here examined especially in connecting metta and equanimity; and (2) through connecting formal metta retreat practice to everyday life practice.
Filled with anecdotes, singing and practical advice, this talk covers the second half of the Metta Sutta, including Metta for All Beings, the Difficult Person, How to Cherish Beings By not Holding to Fixed Views
The one thing that is certain in life is its unpredictability. Having an awareness that inner and outer circumstances could change in a moment can inform our lives in a profound way. Rather than living with vigilance and fear an on-going understanding of the fragility in life can lead us to more wakefulness, appreciation and freedom.
On Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s birthday, we explore how to extend the awakened heart of Metta when there is pain or distress or difficulty. In particular, we examine the practices of compassion and forgiveness, with Dr. King's work and life as a reference point.
