Mindfulness Meditation · Gratitude
This week’s meditation session is led by Sharon Salzberg and the theme is Gratitude.
Avalokiteshvara Enshrined in a Temple; Nepal; Dated by inscription, 1850; Pigments on cloth; Rubin Museum of Himalayan Art; C2006.42.2
This painting of the Rato Machendranath temple in Nepal dates from the 19th century. Hindus consider Rato Machendranath an emanation of Shiva, and Buddhists consider him an emanation of Avalokiteshvara, a bodhisattva who embodies the compassion of all buddhas. This painting is overtly Buddhist since it includes scenes from the life story of the Buddha in the top third of the painting, and Machendranath appears with the classic accouterments of Padmapani, a standing form of Avalokiteshvara holding a lotus in his left hand and his right hand extended in a gift-giving gesture.
Sharon Salzberg is a meditation pioneer, world-renowned teacher, and New York Times bestselling author. She was among the first to bring mindfulness and lovingkindness meditation to mainstream American culture over 50 years ago, inspiring generations of meditation teachers and wellness influencers. Sharon is cofounder of the Insight Meditation Society in Barre, MA, and the author of 14 books, including the New York Times bestseller Real Happiness, now in its second edition, and her seminal work, Lovingkindness. Sharon’s podcast, The Metta Hour, has amassed eight million downloads and features interviews with thought leaders from the mindfulness movement and beyond.
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