Loving-Kindness Meditation

Loving-Kindness Meditation

Tara, 14th century, Nepal or Tibet

The goddess Tara is the female counterpart to the bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara and is believed to have been born out of his tears of compassion for others. She aids devotees in overcoming personal difficulty. Here, her right hand is in the gesture of charity.

In the spirit of compassion, take a moment to practice loving-kindness:

• Sit still, close your eyes and repeat to yourself:
• May I be well
• May I be safe
• May I be peaceful

• Now think of a loved one and direct loving kindness towards them:
• May you be well
• May you be safe
• May you be peaceful

• Finally, direct this loving kindness towards everyone:
• May all beings everywhere be well, be safe, be peaceful

• Slowly open your eyes and notice how you feel