Opening the Heart: The Buddhist Practice of Compassion

Saturday, July 19
10am-4pm
Registration required

Compassion is a central teaching on the Buddhist path, yet it is often misunderstood.

Buddhist compassion is not simply about being nice or self-sacrificing, nor is it about feeling pity for others from a place of superiority. Instead, compassion is practiced as a way to wake up, to free oneself from the narrow, self-centered mindset of "I, me, mine."

In Buddhism, compassion is practiced at eye level—rooted in warmth and free from self-reference. It opens the heart without placing oneself above or apart from others.

In this workshop, we will explore the classic Buddhist meditations known as the Four Limitless Ones. These contemplative practices cultivate an unconditioned wish for all beings—including friends, strangers, and even those we find difficult—to be happy, free from suffering, filled with joy, and released from destructive emotions like passion and aggression.

By uncovering a mind of openness and generosity, we begin to see a much wider world—one in which we are not the central figure. This shift in perspective becomes the foundation for genuine, compassionate action in our everyday lives.

You may also like the following events from Shambhala Boston:

• This Sunday, 6th July, 09:00 am, Sunday Morning Meditation: Nyinthün in Brookline
• This Sunday, 6th July, 12:30 pm, Learn to Meditate in Brookline
• Next Wednesday, 9th July, 07:00 pm, Wednesday Dharma Gathering in Brookline

Also check out other Workshops in Brookline.