My favorite form of meditation is “Metta,” or loving-kindness practice. Here’s why: When I say the four phrases of blessing, first, for myself …
May I be happy.
May I be healthy and strong.
May I be safe.
May I be peaceful and at ease.
... I remember that it is good to be kind to myself; to hold myself in loving embrace as I am; to be gentle, open, forgiving, and accepting.
When I repeat the four phrases again, it opens me up: to wise others, loved ones, friends, you, people I don’t even know, everyone on the planet. Metta helps me connect with your essence, your inner beauty, your pain and suffering. Again, I am softened into compassion.
I try to take the Metta mindset with me wherever I go; it serves as portable peace. I stand in line at the grocery store, noticing someone’s downcast face.
May you find ease and know happiness today.
In American Eagle, music blaring, shopping with my teen daughter, I notice a young mother struggling with two babies in a stroller. She is trying to shop for herself, yet her children tug and pull. Her frustration grows.
May you know patience. May you feel comforted.
This morning my husband awoke with his “ego blaring,” as he puts it. I lay my hand on his heart and silently offer Metta to him.
My sweetheart, may you be at peace today. May your day unfold with ease.
This is why I do metta. It lets me lead with love.
Today…
May YOU be happy.
May you be well, healthy, and strong for the day ahead.
May you be safe and secure.
May you be peaceful and at ease with all the circumstances of your life.