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True Happiness 11 - Practice No. 2 on the Method of Contemplation on the Four Immeasurable Minds
Understanding and loving are the two fundamental elements in the practice of the Four Immeasurable Minds, in which understanding (prajna) is the key that opens the door of love. Understanding is not abstract knowledge but direct experience, “penetrating the skin and flesh” of the object through mindfulness of body, feelings, perceptions, mental formations, and consciousness. These five aggregates are contemplated in order to recognize their true nature and to nourish compassion:
- Form
- Feelings
- Perceptions
- Mental formations
- Consciousness
The practice of transforming anger with mindfulness is to embrace it, not to run away: When anger arises, breathing in, we know we are angry; breathing out, we hold our anger like a mother holding her baby, using the energy of mindfulness to look deeply and to calm it. Mindfulness and anger are not two opposing energies, but they blend together to transform, like warmth embracing the cold.
The practice of compassion is built on the foundation of loving oneself first, then loving others. When transmitting the Three Refuges to children, we teach the Two Promises which encompass the entire teaching:
- To open our heart to love and protect life in all directions
- To open our understanding in order to live in harmony with all beings
The energy of compassion flows from true self-love and understanding, radiating from loved ones to even those we call enemies, helping us live peacefully and support one another.
