Metta (Loving-Kindness)

July 11 to 17, Jim and I were at a meditation retreat at Spirit Rock Meditation Center. The topic of the retreat was Metta, loving-kindness, in Pali. The Dharma Talks, and 2 guided meditations are available on-line for free, HERE. I recommend the talks on Mudita, Joy. Loving-kindness for myself was difficult, especially on the first retreat. The Metta retreats have been very healing for me.

May You Be Safe and Protected
(from inner and outer harm).
May You Be Peaceful and at Ease
(may you carry your duties lightly, unburdened by cares).
May you Be Fit and Healthy
(fitting you body joyfully, seeing your beauty).
May You Be Happy
(in your life).

May All Beings be Safe and Protected,
May We Be Peaceful and at Ease,
May We Be Fit and Healthy,
May We Be Ha-a-a-a-a-py

Metta is a practice in concentration, training the mind to be more focused, and inclining the heart to the sublime state of loving-kindness for all beings.

I love this stuff

Stumbled upon this great link. The Elegant Universe. Saw all or most of this show, and loved it. Now that I found the link, I think I'll watch it again.

Ann Arbor

Jim and I had a great trip to Ann Arbor, Michigan, to visit Wendy and Kayin. Went canoing on Huron River, visited Greenfield Village, went swimming at the lake. Enjoyed walking around Ann Arbor and relaxing.

Wolves of the Sea

And on a lighter note... Wolves of the Sea

Larkspur

Larkspur are the most amazing color, and reseed profusely.

In memory Nader Khalili

I am very fortunate to have studied with Nader Khalili, even for the brief workshop I attended. My world is diminished by the loss of this great man who inspired me, and showed me possibilities of service and creativity.

Spring

Vernal Equinox and Full Moon.

Time for a bonfire.

And jump over it and make a wish.

A Great Speech

Check it out.

SHINZEN Garden

More Photos

Jim choose a visit to the Japanese garden in Fresno for his birthday outing. A great time was had by all. Rounding out the trip was dinner at the nice pasta place and shopping at Trader Joe's.

Madam Butterfly

Went to see Madam Butterfly at the Saroyan Theater in Fresno. It was a wonderful experience. First time I have ever been to the opera, and I want to go more, the music was fabulous. and the whole thing was fun.