These are not easy times. Nor should they be, necessarily. Yet, is this to be merely the winter of our discontent, or shall we gather our wits and best selves and strive together to do something meaningful and effective about it –with local (US) election cycles impending while environmental degradation threatens and fear of violence hounds us at home and abroad.
When people write me of their struggles to lead a more fulfilled life, I often see that many are very hard on themselves, prompting me to remind them to lighten up, enlighten up a little and give themselves a break. Self-compassion is an important part of cultivating lovingkindness and warm empathic compassion which feels what others are feeling and resonates with them.
When you learn to better love and accept yourself, the world follows suit; this is ancient, timeless wisdom. So much is subjective. But don’t take my word for it–check it out.
Most of us strive to do the best we can amidst life’s inevitable challenges, obstacles, and surprises. If you are in this seat, remember to pay homage to the Buddha sitting in your seat: please don’t overlook her!
Lama Surya Das 