I’ve been thinking about grief lately, as March 15 marked
the 27th anniversary of my dad’s death. This year, though I was tender
– as I often am – I didn’t shut down as strongly. And whenever I do get caught
up in the intense pain of the loss, I can finally find relief in Maitri
practice (loving-kindness/metta/unconditional friendliness). For many years,
the practice made basic sense to me but didn’t seem to budge my most
fundamental struggles. Over time, however, my heart has opened up enough to
want to be relieved of the suffering of believing I am alone in my loss, and so
bringing to mind others who have felt grief like this gives space around my
feelings, and a salve of support.
