Self-Compassion -- Sutra 1.33 (6/2/26)

Allison Miller

June 2 2026 • Duration: 52 Minutes

Introducing the theme of Sutra 1.33 -- and a self compassion practice!

I often like to quote Pema Chodron, who says: "To the degree I can be kind and compassionate to myself, to that degree I can be kind and compassionate to others." So this class is a reminder of this fact - to set the tone for the month we will look within and offer ourselves loving kindness and nourishment.
We will also embody this idea: "The practice of compassion begins with acknowledging and discovering the injured person within us."

Using our "kind hands" to soften any hardness within us, and open us up to self-compassion we can begin our exploration of karuna (compassion) towards others too.

This sutra reminds us:
"Animosity, cruelty, jealousy, and self-righteousness are the greatest mental contaminants. The antidotes are friendliness, compassion, happiness, and non-judgement."

"The mind becomes purified and peaceful," when we can cultivate these qualities...
- friendliness to those whose lives appear easier, and happier
- compassion for the unhappy, or those carrying visible or invisible burdens (includes the injured person in you)
- gladness/joy toward those who are finding success or fulfillment
- indifference to difficult people, family dynamics, politics, or social media outrage.

Reflection:
- Which of these four attitudes feels most natural to me?
- Which feels most challenging?
- How can I practice that attitude intentionally this month?

This month is all about applying friendliness, compassion, happiness, and non-judgement whenever we are noticing animosity, cruelty, anger, and jealousy. You got this!