There’s a metta practice I’m quite fond of, one adapted from the fifth century text, The Path of Purification. It reads simply:
May I be peaceful, happy and light in body and spirit.
May I be safe and free from injury.
May I be free from anger, afflictions, fear and anxiety.
In these simple lines we are afforded the opportunity to explore the internal barriers to a true and authentic appreciation of self. As we begin to understand the challenges related to our own happiness, we are better able to understand the same challenges reflected in others.
More specifically, we can begin to see the links between our own self-love and that of others. What is it that’s keeping us from being peaceful, happy and light? Perhaps, the same is true of others? Through this transformative inner-dialogue we begin to open the pathway to a boundless heart.
Though, the answers may be difficult, at times – they provide us invaluable insight. Through this careful examination, we may begin to disentangle ourselves from the images of judgement, self-deprecation and anger – in order that we may finally cultivate that deepened sense of love we so very much deserve.
So tell me, what is it that’s keeping you, my loves?
Let those answers serve as the ‘map’ to your journey.