Compassion Meditation for Time of War (text)
Third Stage: good friend
Think of a good friend – someone you have a close and warm relationship with — and who is experiencing some degree of suffering because of the current conflict. They may be anxious for themselves, or for loved ones, or for the possible long-term global effects of this war. While bearing in mind this person’s suffering, wish him or her well. May they be well, may they be happy, may they be free from suffering.
Fourth Stage: neutral person
Call to mind someone you don’t know, perhaps an ordinary Afghani who is experiencing fear and deprivation as a result of the conflicts in their country. Bear that person’s suffering in mind, knowing that their suffering is as real to them as your suffering is to you. And wish them well. May they be well, may they be happy, may they be free from suffering.
Fifth stage: an enemy
Call to mind someone on the other end of this conflict; a terrorist or a member of the Taliban; perhaps a soldier. We may even despise the values that person holds, and the actions that they have committed or that they intend to do.
Yet we can still recognize that this person suffers. Their frustration and anger and their fear are painful to them, and are the cause of pain for others. We can wish this person well, wishing that the hatred in his or her heart be healed by love. May they be well, may they be happy, may they be free from suffering.
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