Progress in our cultivation comes . . .

 Although it may seem there is nothing we can do,

we can be kind. 

Equanimity. Altruism. Compassion. Courage. It is admirable to strive for these virtues and others. These qualities are not easy to achieve. They’re overwhelming, surely for the starting practitioner, and even for those who are not.

Fortunately, there’s a more basic virtue we can achieve—kindness.

“Is there anything I can help with?” upon seeing our elderly neighbor.

“Why don’t you go first” to the person who approached the check-out line the same moment we did.

The wave to the driver who is trying to edge out into traffic to pull ahead of you.

The smile to the child who looks up at you apprehensively.

For virtues with a capital “V,” we need wisdom. For kindness, while wisdom surely helps, we just need to be aware of what is taking place around us. And to realize that putting someone else’s anxieties, fears, or needs before our own is not a sacrifice. It’s an opportunity. A chance to make not just one, but two people happier.

Transformation takes time. . . .

Mindfulness, 

concentration, 

or meditative concentration?

Mindfulness is being aware of what we are doing and of what is happening around us. When planting seeds in the garden, I am aware of the feel of the dirt, the seed’s firmness, the hose at my feet. I am mindful of the laughter of children nearby, the songs of birds in the trees, the warmth of the sun on my back, and the changing light pattern caused by the clouds. 

Concentration is choosing what I will focus on and remaining focused on that. Holding the seedling, I look for a good spot. Digging a hole, I concentrate on my spade. Watering the seed, I make sure the amount is just right. And the children, the birds, the sun, the moving shadows? I appreciate all of them but I do not become distracted by them. 

Meditative concentration, which requires even more effort, takes concentration to a higher level. It enables us to focus solely on the object or sound that will enable us to fulfill our spiritual aspirations.