On Lovingkindness & compassion
Last Sunday, I gave a talk at the local Zen Center here in my neighborhood. The talk was titled Lovingkindness and Compassion. And while I recognize that the term kindness has become another buzzword in our culture, I think kindness and compassion deserve recognition, a thorough explanation, and most importantly, some context for examination.
In my talk, which you can watch below, I cover the indoctrination that many of us adopt, such as villanizing people who are different and instilling in us a self-centered view of the world. I discuss the jargon of war we’ve adopted despite our aversion to violence. And I share some thoughts on how we can open our hearts to enact generosity and benevolence upon ourselves, people we love, and people we don’t.
At the end of the day, the one thing that binds us all is our unconditional need to be loved and accepted.
This is what should be done
By one who is skilled in goodness,And who knows the path of peace:
Let them be able and upright,Straightforward and gentle in speech,
Humble and not conceited,Contented and easily satisfied,
Unburdened with duties and frugal in their ways.Peaceful and calm and wise and skillful,
Not proud or demanding in nature.
Beginner’s Mind | A Playlist
Following the Beginner’s Mind playlist below on Spotify, every issue will be updated with new music. I’ve also added the titles of the songs below. This issue’s playlist is best when played from beginning to end.
Clinch Daniel Lanois
Watching As She Reels Rafael Anton Irisarri
Third Uncle Bauhaus
Working Class Hero John Lennon