Unit 6 - Universal Loving-Kindness
As with all of our exercises, this one presented an approach to viewing the world I have not experimented with. My mind shifted to various people, from close to home, to those I have unpleasant thoughts about, and then globally. I also began to reword the phrases. I changed 'may' to 'let' in the furst two starements. The last two became, "I will assist....". I changed the wording because I found the word 'may' too weak, more of a wish than a confident declaration. I know I can (and do) change the lives of my patients, so saying may would be a step backward for me.
The self-assessment was not easy and definitely uncomfortable admiting to myself my weak areas, particularly in regards to my family. I had actually just acknowledged it to myself Before reading it for this unit! Graduation is in sight, but still far enough away that a few more months of reduced family time is necessary. I know it is a temporary sacrifice for a long term benefit, but my conscience is not giving me a break from the guilt.
I need to set aside time for hanging out with my kids, a little every day and more on the weekends. During the week, their time can be when I first get home until I begin my schoolwork. Saturday mornings can be spent making breakfast together or a few hours at some activity. I can do it and will do it, with God's help.
Hi there,
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed reading you blog.
I was intrigued by your comments about changing the phrasing in the Universal Loving-Kindness practice. It sounds like you have a very enlightened awareness about yourself; you know what feels right to you.
I also appreciate your honesty in regard to the areas of your development that you feel could use some improvement. When it comes to family relationships, it can be challenging to be objective and open to making changes.
It sounds like you are on a great path! Happy flourishing!
Warmly,
Laura Hall
I really enjoy reading your posts each week and find inspiration in your words. I do appreciate your honesty about your family life, it must be hard. Sacrifices are not always the easiest but keep pushing along you will prevail, and this will all be done for good reasons.
ReplyDeleteI also changed the words a bit, but found them almost annoying to repeat to myself. I have a bracelet that I wear as a physical reminder to do unto others as you would have done to you.
Great post, your almost done!
I really liked what you said in this post, especially the first paragraph. I had the same reaction - the first exercise seemed too wishful to be helpful. I like how you transformed the wishing to confident statements of intention. Very cool.
ReplyDeleteBest of luck as you finish up! You're almost there.