“You show your humanity by how you see yourself not as apart from others but from your connection to others.”
– Desmond Tutu, The Book of Joy

In light of everything we’re experiencing at this moment, finding words can be overwhelming, and none of us have the perfect thing to say.

Personally, I feel I’m holding the grief of losing my Mom and the grief of our country all together.

I’m no expert, and I am listening and learning.

I can see and feel the pain, despair, fear, and anguish being expressed.

I’m finding refuge in my practice – it’s what creates space for me to feel and heal by making space.

Today I want to share this simple Loving Kindness practice I’ve been working with.

I hope you find it supportive.

Take a comfortable seat, and settle into your body.

Feel your breath, and silently repeat each of the following phrases.

Take a little time between each phrase, to marinate in the feeling…

– May we all find the courage to heal.
– May we all see our biases and use them as an invitation to change.
– May we all see that anger is different than hatred.
– May we all see that anger has wisdom, and that wisdom can lead us to repair.
– May we all feel respected.
– May we all feel protected.
– May we all feel loved.
– May we all swim in the ocean of humanity together.

Challenging times are why we practice.

Compassion is the ability to hold love and pain in the same place.

Our practice shows us the path of compassion, even when we disagree.

Our practice creates steadiness in ourselves.

Our self-work gives us strength to stand up, and to help strengthen others.

Our practice teaches us to hold it all, in one space: Joy, sorrow, difficulty, ease, sickness, and health.

How are you navigating this moment?

If you need a safe space to share, you can email me at michele@michelesapanaro.com, or leave a comment below.

Much love,
Michele