Circles of Compassion (Virtual)

Service Description

There is a Buddhist story of the Buddha sending monks into a forest to meditate. Frightened by the sounds and the unknown, they returned and said they could not stay. The Buddha taught them loving-kindness and asked them to extend goodwill to all beings in every direction. When they returned and practiced this way, their fear softened. The forest did not change, but their capacity to meet it did. This feels especially relevant now. We are living in a time shaped by war, hunger, violence and uncertainty on many levels. Loving-kindness is not a way of turning away from this reality. It is a way of meeting it without closing the heart. In the Metta Sutta, the Buddha speaks of cultivating a boundless heart, extending care “to all beings, without exception,” just as a mother protects her only child. This practice begins close—toward ourselves and those we love—and gradually expands outward to include the neutral, the difficult, and ultimately all beings everywhere. For February, our daily meditation and movement practice will take on a simple and steady focus. Each session includes a loving-kindness meditation, gentle movement, and shared stillness. In essence, this month is an intentional training of the heart toward care, compassion, and non-harming. Practices are accessible and shift slightly week to week. Cameras on or off. Come as you are and all are welcome. Meditation experience is not necessary. Join one session or all. These sessions will not be recorded. This offering follows the rhythm of dāna. Give what you can and know you are welcome either way. Sign up once and the same link will carry you through the month. Venmo: @purjoyoga
Zelle: (323) 428-5712