Bedford Public Library

Living kindness, metta practice for the whole of our lives, Kevin Griffin

eng

Includes bibliographical references

no index present

non fiction

Living kindness

bibliography

Kevin Griffin

metta practice for the whole of our lives

"A fresh look at the Buddhist principle of metta, or loving-kindness. Dharma teacher Kevin Griffin demonstrates that metta is not just a meditation practice-it's a radical, selfless way of life based in universal love for all beings. In Living Kindness, Kevin Griffin guides us through the stories of the Pali Canon of Buddhism to deepen our understanding of the "brahmaviharas," or practices of love, compassion, joy, and equanimity. Appealing to the direct words of the Buddha, Griffin challenges us to consider that these practices are not just for developing positive states on the meditation cushion-they're important aspects of living in community and caring for our world. Ultimately, to live kindness is to express the deepest Buddhist wisdom of selflessness and non-clinging. Written in a personal and intimate tone, Living Kindness reads like words from one friend on the spiritual path to another. By unpacking the rich stories of the Pali Canon that often go underappreciated, Griffin transports us to the time of the Buddha, reveals the contemporary relevance of his teachings, and underscores the human dimension of what can seem like lofty philosophy. With guided meditation practices on themes such as forgiveness, the preciousness of human birth, managing emotional attachment, and relating to the "Greed, Hatred, and Delusion Report" of news media, Living Kindness will appeal not only to Buddhist practitioners seeking traditional teachings, but to anyone who wants to grow in their capacity to love unconditionally in a troubled world."--, Provided by publisher

Preface -- Introduction -- May I be happy: loving yourself -- Like milk and water: living in community -- The simile of the saw: non-ill-will -- A troubled world: the greed, hatred, and delusion report -- Born from those who are dear: nonattachment -- As a mother protects her child: living fearlessly -- Sustain this recollection: mindfulness and metta -- The pure-hearted one: hindrances and abodes -- Abiding in equanimity: concentration and the Brahmaviharas -- Radiating kindness: the practice of metta -- This is what should be done: The Metta Sutta -- Not born again into this world: awakening -- Over the entire world: metta for the Earth -- Afterword