Whenever I’m actually vulnerable, folks think something is wrong. That’s not how vulnerability works, folks: it works to air out our stumblings, to say, “it’s okay not to be okay.” So, yes, something is wrong, and—nothing is wrong, I’m just being open. It’s okay to admit to failings. ~ Waylon Lewis

“There is something good in all seeming failures. You are not to see that now. Time will reveal it. Be patient.” ~ Swami Sivananda

Our obstacles
Our case history
Our intractable problems
Our habitual patterns
Our many failures

…are but sometimes-scary gray clouds in the sky, full of life-giving rain.

You are loved.

But—

if you don’t love yourself—

(while, at the same time, pushing yourself to open

with gentle kindness
And brave honesty)

—all the love in the world will find itself blocked
from your heart.

You are loved.
Now let it in.

~

For more: This February, join the international Elephant community to practice Maitri: the Buddhist practice of Making Friends with Yourself. ⁠
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It’s 21 Days with live meetings, community, inspiring study materials, meditation—a fundamental investment in yourself that will last a lifetime.⁠ ⁠
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Join, and for just $1 more (!) you can gift your class to a buddy. Doing it with a loved one can make the experience safe, productive, and help you each stay accountable.