Mettā, which is goodwill or benevolence, is something to practice frequently. It helps our perceptions become more kindly and giving, less critical and holding. Kindness begins by coming into the present moment – breathing, spreading, opening through the whole body. From this state practice referring to what arises with patience, compassion and gratitude.
Structures of Dhamma practice aren’t commandments or statements of reality but to be used as focal points for us to observe. We notice where we hold on, where self-view arises, when we expect things to be fulfilling. All this causes suffering as long as we hold onto it, and liberation when we understand it as it is. Whatever we encounter then is not a heavy burden but an opportunity to cultivate that which will be for my welfare and the welfare of others.
