((((((Sundog))))))

I love my stone buddha too. My dog Joey sits beside it in my dog album.

"Metta" is a Pali word for lovingkindness. Pali is an ancient Sanskrit language from the Buddha's time. The well wishes are (beginning with oneself): May I be happy and peaceful, May I be healthy, May I be free of harm and suffering, May I have ease of well-being. There are more (May I be liberated, etc., but you usually say four of them). The first time, it is said for oneself.

The second time, think of a teacher or benefactor in your life. It can be someone you know or knew, or just someone who inspires you, and say, "(name), may you be happy and peaceful. May you be healthy...etc.

The third time, say the phrases for someone who is a friend or who you have warm feelings for. "(name), may you be happy and peaceful. May you be healthy...etc.

The fourth time, say them for someone you feel neutral toward. (I use the postmistress at the local post office).

The fifth time, say the phrases for someone who is difficult or challenging in your life. This has helped to ease my resentment toward someone, and feel more forgiveness.

The sixth time through to the end, it widens into larger and larger circles, for example: May all neighbors be happy and peaceful...May all beings in (Massachusetts) (substitute your state or region) be happy...May all beings in the U.S....May all beings in the western hemisphere...May all beings on earth...and finally, May all beings everywhere be happy and peaceful...be healthy...be safe from inner and outer harm and suffering, etc.

The phrasing isn't written in stone. Substitute your own, if you like. These are some of the traditional ones. The same with the widening circles. You can expand the circles in any way you like. These are just examples. If any of this is confusing, just let me know.