The Heart of Welcoming

This podcast explores how In each mindful moment we can open to the space that allows us to be non- reactive to the ever changing conditions of life.  In the practice of equanimity we are not trying to fix anything. We are welcoming life as it is (as we are); to realize that we are inherently whole just as we are. We do not need to be "fixed" by meditation. We just need to learn how to welcome ourselves and everyone else.  With this podcast we will practice mindfulness by greeting whatever arises in our minds and emotions with an unbiased attitude. A traditional image for equanimity is a feast to which everyone is invited and welcomed. When we use the word ""thinking"" to label our thoughts in meditation, "thinking" will be a synonym for welcoming and letting go of the thought so that the next quest can come through the door. Equanimity practice develops our aspiration that we may all feel the sense of completely welcoming what we already have, knowing that there is the potential for human beings to gradually develop to a place where nothing is shut out of our heart.  This is the wholeness of heart.

"Equanimity is said to be excellent or sublime because it is the ideal way of conduct towards living beings. It provides, in fact, the answer to all situations arising from social contact. It is the great remover of tension, the great peacemakers in social conflict, and the great healer of wounds suffered in the struggle of existence. It levels social barriers, builds harmonious communities, awakens slumbering magnanimity long forgotten, revives joy and hope long abandoned, and promotes human belonging against the forces of egotism" (edited) Nyanaponika Thera

"The first thing we need is a sense of equanimity, or equilibrium.  Equanimity is an unbiased attitude towards all other beings. We stop the habit of discriminating sharply between friends, enemies, and strangers. If you truly and deeply ask yourself “Why do I feel close to some people and not to others?" you will probably discover that your reasons are superficial. If you really think about this there is no way to continue to see people in the highly prejudicial way you do now. Some people think that becoming equanimous means becoming indifferent to everyone. They are afraid that if they lessen their attachment to their family and friends, their love and affection will disappear. But there is no need to worry; with true equanimity there is no way we can close our hearts to anyone.   From the basis of equanimity, we will be able to cultivate universal love, compassion, and eventually, the full realization of bodhichitta, the open heart dedicated totally to the ultimate benefit of all.  As we create this open space in our consciousness, we take on a much more universal character." Lama Yeshe