Cattāri Brahmavihārā

Perhaps it shouldn’t come as a surprise that some people can’t let go after a particularly violent exchange. It should definitely come as no surprise when you find out that the person in question is sixteen years old.

Despite all of my misgivings about sparring with a sixteen year old (I had no idea I was until much later) I also think it’s a great opportunity to show him how to get over grudges. I’m going to make a special attempt to say hello to him and just radiate mettā towards him in general from now on.

I remember being sixteen and how things seemed very black and white. I don’t quite know how I would have reacted if I had the kind of knowledge that he already possesses. In many ways, that kind of ability can be a dangerous thing if left unchecked and untrained. Luckily, his older brother is one of the head instructors so I think he will be okay.

May Jason be happy! May he enjoy every success! May he become a skilled teacher of the martial arts and may his prowess be unparalleled.