Mettabhavana—Lovingkindness

Mettabhavana is an ancient Buddhist meditation leading to the development of unconditional lovingkindness and friendliness. Metta is something you feel in your heart, a positive emotional state towards others as well as ourselves.

Metta practice helps us: 

• Bring harmony into our lives and into our relationships
  
  
• Rid ourselves of internal and external conflicts
  
  
• Overcome lacerating guilt
  
  
• Be open to loving acceptance of ourselves and others
  
  
• Deepen our connections with all beings

As a result of practicing metta we become more empathetic, more considerate, more kind, more forgiving, and in general, more loving, friendly people. Although it is a Buddhist practice, Lovingkindness Meditation is appropriate for anyone of any belief who wishes to bring more harmony, love, kindness, and friendliness into his or her life.

The Vermont Zen Center offers a six-week course in the practice of Lovingkindness Meditation twice a year. It meets on Wednesday evenings from 7 to 8 p.m. (The first class is longer, ending at 8:30 p.m.) Each session includes lectures, meditation instruction, practice periods and discussion.

Because the initial class of the six-week series is essential to the course, registration is closed after the first class.

Dharman Rice, an ordained senior member of the VZC Sangha, teaches the classes in Lovingkindness Meditation. You are welcome to e-mail him if you have questions.

Anyone who completes the Metta Course is welcome to attend monthly lovingkindness meditation sessions. These are held on the second Monday of the month from 7-8 p.m. For more information, please see the Schedule page of the website.

Spring 2012

Course Dates:
2/29, 3/7, 3/14, 3/21, 3/28, 4/4

Time

Wednesdays from
7-8 p.m. (The first class is from 7-8:30)

Location

480 Thomas Rd.
Shelburne, VT

Who May Apply

Anyone, no experience needed. This course is suitable for beginners, experienced practitioners, non-members, members, and anyone of any belief. It is not necessary to be a Buddhist.

Course Fee

$100, includes all course materials.

Registration

Reservation Form