I Have No Need For An Enemy

Ha! Another thought popped in. When my cousin was murdered a few years ago, within 36 hours, I had moved from disbelief all the way to acceptance (with the loving companionate support of maximum-security prison residents, by the way). Within 36 hours, I found myself sending love and compassion to these people who murdered, whom we'll likely never know their identity. And this continues: every time I think of my cousin, I send these folks love. I know this is the fastest most direct way I can heal the cycle. It won't bring my cousin back but it can prevent it from happening again. This is loving your "enemy" (though I don't see them as such).

Thank-you for writing your story of how the teaching in this article was reflected in your own experience. I have always been amazed and impressed with the ability of some people to forgive those who have killed their relative; even befriending them on occasion. It seems like it would take a huge shift away from the teachings of our culture that basically insist that we consider others as separate and needing to be judged for their activities or statements. It is inspirational to hear how someone has moved so far in their thinking as to truly live as a believer in the ones of all people. I feel like a novice on this journey.

Thank you George for your acknowledgement and kind words. I'll admit, the first time I found myself sending love and compassion to the people who likely murdered my cousin (we'll likely never have a definitive answer as is often the case in these types of cases), I surprised myself. At first, it was not a conscious act; it was a "cri du coeur" as we say in French, meaning a passionate unfiltered outcry. It's since become an automatic response to thinking of my cousin. I hope you notice the "cris du coeur" that are your heart's expression of love and compassion. Happy day!