The Dalai Lama is well known for practicing loving friendliness and compassion. Millions have been inspired by his teachings. I recently came across this practical practice advice from His Holiness:
“1. Spend 5 minutes at the beginning of each day remembering we all want the same things (to be happy and be loved) and we are all connected to one another.
2. Spend 5 minutes breathing in, cherishing yourself; and, breathing out cherishing others. If you think about people you have difficulty cherishing, extend your cherishing to them anyway.
3. During the day extend that attitude to everyone you meet. Practice cherishing the “simplest” person (clerks, attendants, etc) or people you dislike.
4. Continue this practice no matter what happens or what anyone does to you.
These thoughts are very simple, inspiring and helpful. The practice of cherishing can be taken very deeply if done wordlessly, allowing yourself to feel the love and appreciation that already exists in your heart.”
I like this practice. Using the word “cherish” is helpful to me. Somehow cherishing seems to have a lighter touch, less attachment, than loving. Or maybe it’s that the word “love” is burdened with so many meanings. Anyway, I’m going to try cherishing per the above.
Hadn’t thought of it, but I think you are right about the word “love” being “burdened with so many meanings.” Cherish also suggests honoring and respecting, as well.
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Love is…to wish the other person to be happy. Attachment is… to wish the other person to make me happy.