Finding Loving Kindness in 2021

During the COVID pandemic, many of us might have had the time to review our lives, our relationships, and our priorities in life.
 
But in this time of reflection, have we asked ourselves as to what is our fundamental lasting interest in life?
 
If we answered truthfully, we would say, it is our own self. Some of us would say that it is wrong to be interested in ourselves, but the fact of the matter is that we are primarily interested in ourselves, even when we say it is more satisfactory to help another person.
 
We crave satisfaction in all sorts of ways, subtle and obvious; whether in family, or romantic relationships, helping others in society, a job title or position, or a material possession. We desire more than what we have.
 
Why? Well, we probably know the answer to that already, but most often, we are not willing to be truthful with ourselves or others about it.
 
We crave this satisfaction because we are afraid of being a nobody in our society. We are afraid of going unseen. Of not being desired, respected, or wanted.
 
Our mind might argue – what is wrong with self-satisfaction? What is wrong with wanting these things?
 
This craving for having a position in the society or to be recognized as somebody is a wish to dominate and domination is a form of aggression. Our cravings are based in a fear, and this psychological fear is one of the greatest problems in our lives. Inwardly we are whirlpools of misery and mischief and therefore look outward for gratification.
 
But when we are capable of loving and be kind to ourselves – accepting ourselves as we are, then we will no longer crave satisfaction and recognition. We can realize that satisfaction and happiness does not come from the recognition of others. It does not come from having that which may get us noticed. Instead, we realize that when we can truly love ourselves, we need nothing else.
 
To live a truly happy live, it is it essential for us to seek love and kindness from within ourselves. To make the transition from outward satisfaction that is fickle and ever-changing, to inner satisfaction that is constant and true.
 
And when we can do this, then we can truly give love and kindness to others, because we can give it freely without expectation of return, because we realize we need nothing outside of ourselves. This understanding radically shifts the way that we feel and our ability to give.
 
But how do we learn to look within and what does it look like to give to others unencumbered by our own self-serving cravings? As we enter into the new year, let’s explore this line of thought and discover the importance of loving kindness.
 
At the Happyness center our main aim is to help you develop mindfulness and deeper awareness of your inner self. We learn to enquiry and challenge ourselves to grow as human beings for a better quality of life.
 
We all lead busy lives, and meditation can help us relax and renew. We will share, learn, and practice together. Group meditations has many advantages that can reinforce our desires of daily practice that inspires us and others.
 
Due to pandemic, we will be bringing our monthly meditation to you from the Happyness Center via Zoom. We invite you to join our Happyness Center Community for our Monthly Meditation as we explore and discuss about building loving and kindness within.