Voices of Love

Many of us feel that our social and political worlds are more divided than ever before, and are aware of the suffering this polarization causes. One of the key steps in contemplative compassion training is a recognition of our common humanity, that beneath all the superficial differences of religion, culture, race, ethnicity, political beliefs, etc., we all share the same basic human feelings and needs. In this episode, Ven. Tenzin introduces this topic and leads us through a brief guided

Characteristics of Anger:Theme: Being thwarted in pursuit of goal that matters to youEffects: Anger controls, punishes and retaliatesDangerous effect: Anger calls forth more anger. It is difficult not to respond to anger with anger, especially when it appears unjustifiedWhy do people want to change anger?It is the dangerous emotion that can quickly hurt others, psychologically, and physicallyMany taught not to express anger -> guilt, shameFor some own anger can get out of control -> fearCommon Anger

Today's episode includes a couple of lists of qualities, which are jotted down here for your ease of reference.Qualities of a true friend, according to the Buddha.Is a help and supportIs the same in happiness and sorrowAdvises his friend for his welfareIs sympatheticVen Tenzin also mentions Jean Baker Miller's list of five phenomena of growth-enhancing relationships.Each person feels a great sense of zest (vitality).Each person feels more able to act, and does act.Each person has a more accurate