Day 20: When we know how to listen to our hearts, we can listen to the hearts of others ~ Stephen Covey

Day 20: Listen to our hearts(Stephen Covey)

Music from Journey through the Matrix by Harry Massey & David Gibson

Is your inner voice critical or compassionate?

We’ve heard from experts that each of us is born with our own version of genius. We are unique, have a distinct X-factor and we each possess some precious value all our own. So why are we often so critical of ourselves? And why do we sometimes tear others down with our criticism.

Whether spoken aloud or simply thought, our inner voice tends to come from the ego, or social self. And more times than we are proud of, this voice can be really mean.

So beginning a meditation practice can often bring us quiet time where we find ourselves up close and personal with our inner critic. As we persevere with sending ourselves heartfelt wishes of happiness and allow ourselves to be seen with the eyes of compassion something shifts. We begin to soften. And over time we can hear the still, sweet voice of our heart and soul whispering how lovable we are, just as we are.

This softening allows us to recognize the inner critic for what it is, a collection of social programs, past hurts and reminders to attack or be attacked. And as we see that this inner meanie isn’t real and certainly isn’t the real me, we recognize how often others are likely hearing their own negative messages.

So as you bring daily attention to your mind and heart, be open to listen to and really hear the messages of your heart. And offer everyone else you meet the same generosity.

When we know how to listen to our hearts, we can listen to the hearts of others. ~ Stephen Covey

T

THE COMPASSION MEDITATION PRACTICE

Begin today’s meditation by taking five deep, slow breaths. Breathe in through your nose slowly to the count of 6, hold your breath for 2 counts, and exhale slowly to the count of 6. Do this for a total of 5 breaths.

With your hands resting on your lap, or on your heart if you wish, recite the loving kindness phrases and really try to generate the feelings of kindness, friendliness and compassion. Starting with yourself, say:

 May I be free from suffering. May I be peaceful and truly happy. May I be well in body, mind and heart. May I live with ease.

As you feel the warmth coming from your heart, a sincere desire that you not suffer, see if you can extend that feeling to someone you care about. Imagine a dear friend or loved one and repeat the phrases:

May you be free from suffering. May you be peaceful and truly happy. May you be well in body, mind and heart. May you live with ease.

Finally, as you bask in these wonderful feelings of kindness and compassion, extend the wish to all beings on the planet.

Spend a few minutes allowing this wave of loving kindness to swirl around you and radiate out from you.

Take this feeling of connectedness  with you throughout your day. Always remembering that you, too, are worthy of a life free from suffering, full of peace and true happiness.

Please share this 21-day challenge with your friends and loved ones using the hashtags #Compassion #Meditation

May you be free from suffering. May you be peaceful and truly happy. May you be well in body, mind and heart. May you live with ease.

With love,

Dr Andrea art signature