Compassion is a central mental factor that we want to cultivate on the path. It is both the sensitivity to suffering and the wholesome intention and action to alleviate suffering. Compassion frees the heart from unwholesome mindstates temporarily, is the foundation of moral conduct and supports the unfolding of wisdom.
Trust, faith or confidence is an important quality of mind on our path - enabling us to set out on the path, to engage with the teachings, to keep going even when facing challenges and to open up to the fullness of our experience. What prevents faith and trust and how can it be nurtured and developed?
Sutta quote: Directed and Undirected Meditation (S 47.10 The Bhikkhuni’s quarter.)
The four main aspects and their respective stuck places are described in psychological terms.
A digression on the nature of dissociation, its uses and dangers and some of its telltale signs in meditators is offered.
