Cattāri Brahmavihārā

Yes, the title and possibly even the photo are a little dramatic but we’ve not entered into a time of even greater uncertainty than we have within my memories of this life. Schools have shut down. Gatherings h have been banned and restaurants and bars are now closed. Not just here, but the whole world over. In many ways it seems like just another day. And then there are scenes like this one:

Abandoned platforms in the busiest station serving a city of 8 million.

I don’t know what comes next. I don’t know if these bodies, institutions and delicate arrangements will survive or if they will pass away and return to the elements from which they are made. And, I have no control over it at all.

May we do our best not to allow anxiety, fear and stress overwhelm our wisdom. May we arm ourselves with the courage only compassion and virtue can provide.