Compassion in the Time of Coronavirus by Jack Kornfield

Jack Kornfield trained as a Buddhist monk in the monasteries of Thailand, India and Burma. He has taught meditation internationally since 1974 and is one of the key teachers to introduce Buddhist mindfulness practice to the West. After graduating from Dartmouth College in Asian Studies in 1967 he joined the Peace Corps and worked on tropical medicine teams in the Mekong River valley. Returning to the United States, Jack co-founded the Insight Meditation Society in Barre, Massachusetts, with fellow meditation teachers Sharon Salzberg and Joseph Goldstein and the Spirit Rock Center in Woodacre, California. Over the years, Jack has taught in centers and universities worldwide, led International Buddhist Teacher meetings, and worked with many of the great teachers of our time. He holds a Ph.D. in clinical psychology and is a father, husband and activist.

This 13-minute practice is a way to hold yourself and all those around you in a heart of compassion.

For reflection alone or together:

May you be held in compassion

May you be safe and well, healed and protected

May your struggles, your sufferings and your fears be eased

May you live with a compassionate and peaceful heart

Which of these phrases most resonates with you?

Which of these phrases is most challenging for you?