Why We Look Into the Depths of Our Hearts

[Vicki Goldsberry]

Recently I've been re-reading Pema Chodron's book, When Things Fall Apart. Her words reminded me of the Sheng Zhen movement from Jesus Standing Qigong, "Looking into the depths of one's heart." Perhaps I finally understand.

Chodron first quotes Thich Nhat Hanh's words, "Suffering is not enough." She goes on to say that though discipline and honesty are important, those qualities without compassion and kindness are just plain mean.

I like that: I like the simple language, and I feel the truth of those words.

When we look into our hearts, trying to see clearly, we discover all sorts of things. Sometimes we get depressed by or feel guilty about our inadequacies -- but it's equally important to acknowledge the brightness within. Kindness helps us discover what's true, not only about ourselves, but about others. As Chodron writes, "...when we look into our own hearts and begin to discover what is confused and what is brilliant, what is bitter and what is sweet, it isn't just ourselves that we're discovering. We're discovering the universe. When we discover the Buddha that we are, we realize that everything and everyone is Buddha."

We can soften our hearts and open to the world. We can awaken to possibilities. With an open heart, when we experience pain and loss, we can welcome it, breathe in the pain and loss of others, and exhale healing love to all in need. When we do this, we soften our hearts even further. We can become aware of our sweet awakened heart and embrace the not knowing.

[George W. Byers]

Vicki: An interesting post, though I'm not familiar with Chodron's work. I'll have to look into it.

I would add as a corollary that sometimes we must stop looking, in order to see.

Thanks for your post.

George