In his teachings on dependent origination found in the Upanisa Sutta of the Samyutta Nikaya, the Buddha explained the path in such positive terms as joy, rapture, tranquillity, and happiness.
When we understand that our happiness and unhappiness depends on our actions, then we can act with intentions that are loving and generous. This is what brings about the happiness we long for.
Metta practice works it's magic by reflecting back our momentary experience so we can see where we are still holding. Embracing these parts of ourselves leads us to the boundless heart of metta.
