Virtual Metta Retreat: Teatime (5) with Ajahn Sona

Teatime at Birken (5 of 9) streamed live as part of the Virtual Metta Retreat (December 23-31, 2020).

Index of questions:

00:00 - Welcome

00:23 - Does Metta include patiently bearing with the unpleasant?

07:34 - Can you speak of Metta towards objects or natural elements? Like, towards snow.

16:18 - What is the middle way in cultivating Metta powerfully without trying to force it?

22:24 - Do you need to be a Buddhist to recieve or radiate Metta? Does speaking Pali help?  

26:31 - Previously you said that one has a better chance with Metta knowing it is a component of the Eightfold Path. Can you say more?

28:40 - I love being happy but don’t want to brush off my broken heart. What do you suggest?

32:07 - Do you have an example of a misused application of metta which we should avoid?  

35:18 - Can you comment on spiritual conceit?

41:32 - What is the need to lead a virtuous life and what does trying to do this give us?

48:30 - Given all the horrors of the world, should we use our time and energy to make it a better place?

52:13 - How does one become consistent in the recollection of one’s good actions?