Four Flavors of Love: Sept. 24, Oct. 29, Nov. 19, Dec. 10

with Frank Ostaseski

The four flavors of love are Lovingkindness, Compassion, Appreciative Joy, and Equanimity. In Buddhism, they are known as the Brahma Viharas, four sublime, Immeasurable and unselfish abodes of love.  They are said to be among the most beautiful and powerful qualities that we can embody as human beings.

We will explore how these four flavors of love can be skillfully used in caring for those with serious illness, coping with significant loss, or navigating life transitions. The highly experiential course will offer a fresh look and provide opportunities to interact personally with Frank. We hope to build a sense of community among like-minded participants.

The course is structured around four, 2-hour monthly sessions. Each session includes discussion, meditation, and experiential exercises. Our intention is to develop and learn to apply invaluable qualities in our work and daily life.

• Sept. 24, 2023: Lovingkindness is the foundation of true service and non-judgmental attention. It embraces whatever it meets with impartiality even if that person or object at first glance seems unlovable.
• Oct. 29, 2023: Compassion is inseparable from wisdom. It grows out of empathetic concern and guides us in appropriate actions that help to reduce suffering. It expresses the gentleness and kindness that is necessary for the heart and mind to relax, trust, and open.
• Nov. 19, 2023: Appreciative Joy is our innate ability to delight in what’s good in the present moment. Joy also activates and infuses our openness with a vibrant and spontaneous creativity, expanding the spectrum of possible responses
• Dec. 10, 2023: Equanimity gives us the capacity to profoundly care without becoming overwhelmed. It protects and balances the other three forms of love.

This course is a co-sponsored event with Upaya Zen Center and the Metta Institute. All are welcome. No previous experience is required.

Register