Keys to Peace, sutra 1.33

Ok, we didn’t always get it right, but during the holidays we really exercised our kindness muscles.  Think of how many times you listened to your people’s stories, watched their enthusiasm, listened to their complains, bit your tongue!  It was like a mega-workout and right now we are strong and practiced at being kind.  So let’s pump the brakes on those tempting new year resolutions, flex our kindness muscles and use our strength to do something extreme. 

But first, let’s take a closer look at the kindness that we cultivated, according to yoga:

Maitri: We noticed when our people were happy, and we tried to be happy for them (even when we didn’t agree with their choices).

Karuna:  We noticed when our people were worried or sad or frustrated, and we tried to listen and be compassionate (even when we just wanted to quickly cheer them up). 

Upeksha:  We heard our people gossiping and being unkind and we didn't participate.

Mudita:  We celebrated our people’s accomplishments and rewards (even when we were a bit jealous).

And now, let’s do something extreme with it… extend it to ourselves!  

Maitri:   Think back on a moment this past year when you were happy.  Just think about the first happy moment that pops up.  Resist the urge to label yourself as naive.  Resist the urge to remind herself how it didn’t last.  Just be happy for yourself.  

Karuna:  Think back on a moment when you were sad or anxious.  Resist the urge to remind yourself of the lessons you learned.  Just stay and let yourself remember.  Think about how it felt in that moment, and then say some caring things to your sad or anxious self.  

Upeksha:  Think back on a moment when you were gossipy, unkind, or jealous this year.  Resist the urge to label this as guilt, and also resist the urge to think of this as a learning moment.  Just acknowledge it, and then send out a good vibe to that person. Yep, that’s it.

Mudita:  Think back on a moment when you were rewarded this past year.  Resist the urge to think about all the work you put into it.  Resist the urge to label yourself as lucky.  Just take a moment to feel the warmth of having been smiled upon a bit this year.  

Let’s make a vow to pump the brakes and only make those resolutions from a place of extreme self-kindness this year.  Take a few hours or even a few days. Really let the loving-kindness seep into your pores.  And only then, make those goals.

Until next time,

Laura