Each day when confronted with unfavorable feelings and circumstances, we have an opportunity to open up or shut down to the experience. Whenever we find it difficult to exist within the reality of the present moment there is inner work to be done.
Maitri is showing unconditional love and friendliness toward oneself. This concept involves training ourselves to notice when we are closing our hearts and stuffing our pain instead of exploring what we feel. Through maitri we examine our patterns of dealing with discomforts as they arise in a loving non-judgmental way.
An effective means to do this is in daily meditation practice. In true purpose, meditation is not escapism. It is a quest into realism where we allow our rubs to surface as opposed to diverting our attention from them. Meditation empowers our ability to identify the habitual triggers that distract from true growth.
"Becoming awake involves seeing our confusion more clearly." ~ Trungpa Rinpoche
When our children get into mischief we tell them to sit down and think about what they've done. This is the dialogue we should have with ourselves. Observing our thoughts and feelings to acknowledge their lessons decodes our behavioral responses.
My teacher has helped me understand that when I become uncomfortable, less stable in my practice the soil is being overturned. The false imaginings of self that have taken root are being excavated and expelled. My practice exposes the places within my temple that serve as shields from the reality of my experiences.
An ever deepening practice helps me continue to embrace the inevitabilites of change. Ajna, my third eye, opens and my courage to confront challenges increases. These revelations liberate and with greater clarity I am released into the authentic realm of the senses whether pain filled or joyous eruptions.
Mirage of senses
Sincerity a stranger
My wings now healing
~ JoiLotus
When challenges arise do you welcome the lessons or do you resist them?
Are you aware of your patterns of response to your feelings and circumstances?
What prevents you from getting to know yourself at the deepest levels?
"The essence of bravery is being without self-deception." ~ Pema Chodron
