The Dharma of Equanimity

Until we actually love our enemies,
Our love of family and friends will be quite limited.

(Actually, one of the most stunning aspects of learning to love our enemies is that we realize that many of the negative thoughts and feelings that we project on our enemies also seep into our interactions with friends and family. At first, we may excuse these things when we become aware of them because we know we love those that are closest to us; we can't possibly be seeing our loved ones in such a negative light. But if we truly practice equanimity - seeing all with an even eye - we will come to the understanding that we have barely scratched the surface of truly practicing love.)

The Blessing Call

Let us touch the light
We know shines behind the darkness between the stars.

And if not that
Then the light of the stars themselves

And if not that
Then the light of the sun in the bright day

And if not that
Then the light of the sun that glows on the moon

And if not that
Then the light of the fire around which we sing and sleep

And if not that
Then the glow of the fire on the faces of those with whom we sit

And if not that
Then the shine in the eyes of those at whom we gaze

And if not that
Then the darkness behind the glow
In the eyes of those whom we love

For in this darkness

We will touch the light
Which shines behind the darkness between the stars

         -excerpt from Sweet Unpleasant Realities.