Loving kindness is a state of mind where we actually cherish the existence, happiness and well-being of others. If we take the trouble to cultivate that, no matter what our personal circumstances are, our lives will be rich and full. Wannabe superstars, internet sensations and get-rich-quick merchants, please take note.
The natural motivation arising from loving kindness is to make the world a better place for everyone. It may be
that what we do directly affects only one life, no matter. Rather than seeing what we can get out of the world for
ourselves, we see what we can put into it. This is not what our traditional education and upbringing always
prepares us for, and certainly not what the modern media culture often presents as successful living.
The extraordinary effect of loving kindness and how to live it
A person who is filled with loving kindness radiates a very special quality. Think of a person who has affected you at some time by their kindness towards you. Wasn’t there something special emanating from them? Perhaps at the time, or maybe later on, that evoked in you some warmth, appreciation or even love towards them.
Imagine someone who felt that loving kindness towards everyone they came across. Think of the effect they would be having on everything and everyone around them. There would be a tremendous aura about them, wouldn’t there? It would touch and disarm almost everyone and they would have a warmth and smile that would melt hearts. If you have had the good fortune to be in the presence of such a person, you will know how utterly remarkable an effect there is.
If you can imagine it, it’s possible
Take a moment to imagine yourself to be someone similar to that. What does it feel like? It might feel perfectly natural or it could feel a little strange at first. If you can imagine it, it means that such a state of being is possible to achieve. If it is too far a stretch for the imagination now, just try to think friendliness and kindness towards all those you come into contact with during your daily life.
By thinking in this way, life starts to change. Little by little, the natural kindness that is inherent in all of us will surface in you more and more. Okay, there will be occasions or even periods when it won’t be there because challenges and painful memories will cause it to run for cover at times. That’s normal, but persist and enjoy being in that state of kindness as often as possible and the benefits will start to accumulate.
So be genuinely kind and allow that beautiful flower of your heart centre to blossom.
Based on an extract from The Great Little Book of Happiness available here.
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