Boundless Loving-Kindness (Metta) - Dave Richo

How can we continue to stretch our sense of loving-kindness to include all beings?In this talk, Dave Richo explores the practice of loving-kindness (metta) in Buddhism, emphasizing its expansive nature. Using an analogy from Romeo and Juliet, Dave explains that love is boundless, reaching beyond our immediate relationships to encompass all beings. He introduces the concept of concentric circles, where love radiates from ourselves to our close ones, those we are neutral toward, marginalized individuals, and even those we struggle with, eventually encompassing all beings. The core idea is that as we give love, it grows in abundance, benefiting both us and others.Dave encourages us to include in our loving-kindness practice:Self-love: Starting with extending kindness to ourselves, as we can't offer to others what we don't have.Expanding circles: Extending love outward from family and friends to neighbors, marginalized groups, and enemies.Compassion for all beings: Wishing well even to those who harm us, recognizing that everyone seeks happiness and is capable of transformation. By cultivating this mindset daily, we can contribute to a more just, peaceful, and loving world.______________David Richo, Ph.D., is a psychotherapist, writer, and workshop leader. He shares his time between Santa Barbara and San Francisco, California. Dave combines psychological and spiritual perspectives in his work. His latest book is "Ready: How to Know When to Go and When to Stay." (Shambhala, 2022). The website for books, talks, and events is www.davericho.com. ______________  To support our efforts to share these talks with LGBTQIA audiences worldwide, please visit https://gaybuddhist.org/There you can:   Donate  Learn how to participate live  Find our schedule of upcoming speakers  Join our mailing list or discussion forum Enjoy over 900 recorded talks dating back to 1995CREDITSAudio Production: George HubbardProducer: Tom BrueinMusic/Logo/Artwork: Derek Lassiter