After a review of the first three foundations, we look at the general nature of the Fourth Foundation of the specific frameworks used and some ways to practice.
The Buddha spoke highly of generosity.
- how does generosity open the heart and bring connection, openness and many wholesome qualities?
- what supports and hinders this beautiful quality?
- how to practice this in simple gradual and life changing ways?
We continue to explore mindfulness of thoughts and emotions, including the three sets of instructions in the text, and mindfulness of difficult thoughts and emotions (and what to do when mindfulness is very hard or impossible).
There are two great proximate causes for compassion: suffering and wisdom. Suffering opens the heart and wisdom lets us see the fragile impermanent nature of all things.
Q&A at end of talk
The near enemy of compassion is pity; the far energy is cruelty. But more often the obstacles to true compassion are wanting to fix rather than be with suffering.
