No Hard Feelings: The Gifts of Practicing Forgiveness
with Marylouise Kelley
"It is painful to hate. Without forgiveness we continue to perpetuate the illusion that hate can heal our pain and the pain of others. In forgiveness we let go and find relief in our heart." Jack Kornfield
Why can it be so hard to forgive? Finding forgiveness in our hearts can be a process of choosing to let go of long-held resentments for our own sake, as well as the sake of others. In this talk we will explore the beliefs behind clinging to resentments, the benefits of forgiving,and the ways in which our meditation practice can support us in finding equanimity when forgiveness is not available to us.
Resources:
Eric Kolvig's Forgiveness Prayer: https://www.mindfulpath.com.au/application/files/3415/6582/9680/Forgiveness_prayers_by_Eric_Kolvig.pdf
Bikkhu Analyo Bhramavihara Meditation, Compassion and Emptiness, available through the Barre Center for Buddhist Studies website. https://www.buddhistinquiry.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/brahmavihara-1.mp3
No Hard Feelings by the Avett Brothers
Metta Sutta