Connected: February 26 - March 4

Here's why the metta practice works for me. I'm an introvert by nature. While social distancing and quarantining got old after a couple years, initially I liked staying in one place with just my immediate family. If I'm not intentional when I close my eyes to meditate, instead of becoming aware of the present moment, I can fall into the trap of running away from life's discomfort. I can zone out for 20 minutes each morning. But metta prompts me to remember how I'm actually connected to everyone. If in meditation, turning inward can sometimes become a form of escape, then in metta, turning outward is the antidote to self-centeredness.

Practice

• Invent your own form of metta by creating your own phrases.

• Instead of words, use your smile to extend loving kindness to those who cross your path today.

• Book a massage or take a walk as a way to give yourself some extra love.

• Make a donation to support those without homes, to an endangered animal, or to a troubled place.