I LOVED this weeks assignment. As usual, I am rushing to complete my homework by deadline, so I can't put the quality time into this that I would like; but I'm going to go back and re-read the book at a slower pace once this class is done.
The Universal Loving Kindness exercise brough tears to my eyes. The first thought I had was, what a different world it would be if everyone practiced this! Then I realized that I can make a difference in MY world--in my children's world-- if I begin practicing this on a regular basis. This was one of the best assignments we've had yet, in my opinion.
The second assignment definitely left me thinking hard. In the past 2 years I've delt with a divorce that was very bitter and nasty for almost a full year of that time. Thankfully things are MUCH better now, but in the wake of all that pain and anger, I've spent a LOT of time pondering on these very things. I've wanted to grow from the pain and become a better person. At this point in my life, I feel that moving forward is my biggest challenge, and that is definitely the line of development that is the most essential for me at this point in time.
Allie,
ReplyDeleteThe Loving-Kindness exercise made me cry the first time I listened to it. I mean it is hard not to if you focus on your loved ones; all of that love concentrated into one body can be a little overwhelming. I am so sorry about your divorce. I may not gone through a divorce of my own but I can imagine how it feels and harboring all of that pent up anger and aggression will not be beneficial in the years to come. I am glad that you want to get past all of that and grow from that; you will be stronger as a result. It may seem difficult at this point in your life, but if you try to get your interpersonal quadrant balanced with the other 3 quadrants optimal wellness will follow.
Allie,
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like you truly benefited from that exercise! The part that tugged on my heart strings was about giving loving kindness to your enemies and opening up your love. I thought that was very touching because immediately there were people who popped in my mind! I did one better and actually made amends with some folks who I had gone years without speaking to thanks to this assignment! Who would know it would make such an impact. Continue to practice this one and make sure you share with your children.