Practice lovingkindness towards yourself and others from "summary" of Buddha Is as Buddha Does by Surya Das
Lovingkindness is a practice, a way of being, a way of relating to ourselves and others. It is an attitude of goodwill, warmth, and compassion that we can cultivate and nurture within ourselves. When we practice lovingkindness towards ourselves, we are offering ourselves the same kindness, care, and compassion that we would offer to a dear friend or loved one.
It is about treating ourselves with the same gentleness and understanding that we would offer to someone we deeply care about. When we practice lovingkindness towards ourselves, we are acknowledging our own worth, our own inherent goodness, and our own capacity for growth and transformation.
This practice is not about self-indulgence or selfishness, but rather about recognizing our own humanity and our own vulnerabilities. It is about being kind to ourselves in the face of our own imperfections, our own mistakes, and our own struggles. It is about cultivating a sense of self-compassion and self-acceptance that allows us to move through the world with greater ease and grace.
When we practice lovingkindness towards others, we are extending that same attitude of goodwill, warmth, and compassion to those around us. It is about seeing the humanity in others, recognizing their own struggles and vulnerabilities, and offering them the same kindness and care that we would want for ourselves.
Lovingkindness is not just a feeling, but also a way of acting in the world. It is about being generous, patient, and understanding towards others. It is about listening deeply, speaking kindly, and acting with compassion and empathy. It is about treating others with respect, dignity, and love, regardless of their background, beliefs, or actions.
By practicing lovingkindness towards ourselves and others, we are cultivating a sense of connection, belonging, and community. We are recognizing that we are all interconnected, that our actions have an impact on others, and that we all share a common humanity. Lovingkindness is a powerful practice that can transform our relationships, our communities, and our world.
