Sharing the heart is a simple practice that can be used at any time and in every
situation. It enlarges our view and helps us remember our interconnection.
The essence of this practice is that when we encounter pain in our life we
breathe into our heart with the recognition that others also feel this. It’s a
way of acknowledging when we are closing down and of training to open up. When
we encounter any pleasure or tenderness in our life, we cherish that and
rejoice. Then we make the wish that others could also experience this delight
or this relief.
In a nutshell, when life is pleasant, think of others. When life is a burden,
think of others. If this is the only training we ever remember to do, it will
benefit us tremendously and everyone else as well. It’s a way of bringing
whatever we encounter onto the path of awakening bodhichitta.
[Pema Chödrön Heart Advice]
