Being with Dying by Joan Halifax

Author:Joan Halifax
Language: eng
Format: mobi, epub
Publisher: Shambhala Publications
Published: 0101-01-01T00:00:00+00:00

MEDITATION

Boundless Caring

Bringing together the strength of equanimity and the tenderness of compassion, the courage of presence and the openness of surrender, the following practices can nourish healthy caregiving practice as we offer our lives to the well-being of others. In the experience of giving care, there is a delicate balance between opening our heart endlessly (compassion) and accepting the limits of what we can do and how we and others feel (equanimity). Most of us need to cultivate this balance between compassion—the tenderness of the heart in response to suffering—and equanimity—the spacious stillness that accepts things as they are. The balance of compassion and equanimity allows us to care without becoming overwhelmed and unable to cope because of that caring.

The phrases we use reflect this balance. Choose phrases that are personally meaningful to you. Remember to find as comfortable a position as possible, and to take a few deep, soft breaths in order to let your body settle. Bring your attention to your breath and silently repeat your chosen phrase.

• May my love for others flow boundlessly.

• May the power of loving-kindness sustain me.

• May I find the inner resources to truly be able to give.

• May I remain in peace and let go of expectations.

• May I offer my care and presence unconditionally, knowing it may be met by gratitude, indifference, anger, or anguish.

• May I offer love, knowing that I cannot control the course of life, suffering, or death.

• May I see my limits compassionately, just as I view the suffering of others.

• May I accept things as they are.

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