Sometimes in order to see the light we must become willing to sit with the darkness. Turning away from what we judge as too painful only creates more suffering. That from which we turn away longs for our tender embrace, acceptance, and compassion.
Only when we know our own darkness well can we be present with the darkness of others. Compassion becomes real when we recognize our shared humanity.
–Pema Chodron
Our tendency is to seek pleasure and avoid pain, but in avoiding pain, we close down to many other aspects of our experience.
Breathe in compassion. Breathe out pain.
Breathe in loving-kindness. Breathe out pain.
Compassion means being with whatever is here right now with kindness and mercy. Can we turn toward ourselves and our pain with compassion? Practicing compassion toward ourselves and others can increase a sense of peace and happiness.
In these moments when you’re practicing sitting with the darkness, don’t forget to balance it with moments of joy. Notice something beautiful in nature or in something you create. Breathe in beauty. Breathe out joy.
Jen Johnson is a mindfulness coach and counselor teaching meditation for healing and resilience. Learn more about working with Jen.