Altruism Reflections

🔹 As I watch and log my actions and thoughts, what percentage would I say are altruistic and what percentage are more self-centered?

🔹 In the past when I have taken actions to help others has my motivation been purely altruistic, or has it been mixed with more self-centered motivations like self-image, moral grandstanding, or seeking praise?

🔹 Have I come to understand the pitfalls of interacting with life from selfcentered motivations? Both personally and societally?

🔹 What are the benefits of living life from a more altruistic motivation? Both personally and societally?

🔹 When we think of the people we know and have met in life, who seem demonstrably happy? Is it people who are mostly focused with their own issues and problems? Or is it people who tend to be very caring and concerned for others?

🔹 What does it feel like when I am the recipient of another’s altruistic actions or care? 

If we all take these steps to get to know ourselves objectively and reflect personally in this way, then we will have a good foundation from which to set forth on our altruistic journey together. We will know where we are now, how we want to grow, and will be able to set realistic intentions to work towards during the remainder of the intensive.

Since this is self-guided, you are invited to work with whatever meditation practices you believe would be beneficial for you to prepare your mind for living an altruistic life during your formal meditation periods. Later on there will be resources on specific meditative practices that support our altruistic endeavors. 

May our aspirations to live a more altruistic life come to fruition as we journey together!