Facilities of Liberation
Helper energies and qualities
The practice of mindfulness, non-violence, and compassion are supported by the embodiment of these qualities. The practice of mindfulness brings awareness to lots of suffering. The suffering can feel overwhelming at times. The suffering needs a lot of support to take care of it. These qualities provide a foundation of steady support to bring transformative presence to both the joys and difficulties of life. As you develop awareness you will also develop the warmth of your core humanities.
Presence
Being there with all things that arise. Both for yourself and for others in solidarity.
Wholesomeness
An intuitive embodiment of health and goodness. This warm feeling is like a compass of sorts.
Loving Kindness
From the Buddhist embodiment of metta. The feeling and development of benevolence and compassion.
Steadiness
The composure to remain present, committed, and mindful despite challenging conditions. Similar to equanimity.
Continuity
The act of sustaining a practice or attitude over a long period of time. This is how attitudes and momentums are strengthened.
Non-judgement
The state of withholding judgement to allow for open-minded awareness of things.
Integrity
Beyond a matter of rational honesty. The steadiness of your connection and commitment to your way of being.
Moderation
Careful consideration of extremes and the ability to mindfully attend one’s own senses, attitudes, and behaviors.
Egolessness
The quality of experiencing things outside the concept of self. An ability to be with things, perhaps as a formless observer.
Receptiveness
The composure of one’s sensitivity when things occur. The ability to receive, process, and respond mindfully.
Gentleness
The embodiment of steady, patient, kindness. Like a parent caring for a child.
Patience
Aspiration to see things through, beyond their superficial form. A steadiness of heart which permeates the turbulence of life.
Effortlessness
A feeling of flow. As if gently revealing something that was already there.
Coexistence
The quality of feeling and affirming the presence and inter-connected lives of others. Being at peace with others.
Purpose
A steady beacon that is always lit. Purpose cannot be taken away.
When I was a young man, I sometimes felt like meditation would destroy me. I felt overwhelmed by the lonely despair I was shining my awareness on. I knew that I wanted to provide steady presence to pain, but I found that I could not tolerate opening the doors. The difference now is that I have a stronger foundation in my humanities. To be steady with great pain requires great compassion and commitment. I’ve noticed that my aspirations for the above qualities result in more softness, grace, and warmth that I can call on for both the support of joy and the healing of pain.