Practice: Send Love Out to the World

Generosity of spirit and love is as important as being generous with material things. But this practice can be lost in the day-to-day busyness of our lives. Are you fortunate enough to be loved by many in your life? Are you in a special relationship? Do you have children, parents, grandparents, or a relative or friend whose love makes a big difference in your life? Wouldn't that love you feel be a great gift to share with others? There are many for whom family gatherings, birthday parties, special celebrations with friends, and other occasions of the heart are difficult times. As a practice, think of those who may not have much love in their life or those who may need an extra dose and open your heart to them. Share your love with those in need through thoughts and prayers. John O'Donohue, author of Anam Cara, a book about the teachings of the ancient Celts of England, spoke of this practice in terms of "soul friends," a friendship where two people are united in awareness, intimacy, and mutuality. He says, "When you send that love out from the bountifulness of your own love, it reaches other people." It's worth a try.

This practice was developed for the Fetzer Institute by Frederic and Mary Ann Brussat, directors of Spirituality & Practice.