Apr 09 2024 20 mins
As we journey through life, our paths often intertwine with those of animals, who become companions on our journey. Their presence enriches our lives, offering us love, loyalty, and a profound connection to the natural world. In their eyes, we see reflections of ourselves, reminding us that their lives and deaths are no less significant than our own. In moments of transition, such as when a beloved animal companion approaches the end of their life, we may turn to practices like Tonglen to offer comfort and support.
Tonglen, a Tibetan Buddhist meditation technique, invites us to breathe in the suffering of others and breathe out compassion and relief. In this practice, the familiar sequence remains, yet with a heartfelt integration of animals. As we sit with our dying animal companion, we visualize taking in their pain and fear with each inhalation, allowing ourselves to fully acknowledge and empathize with their experience. With each exhalation, we offer them peace, comfort, and love, surrounding them with warmth and tenderness.
One of the beautiful aspects of Tonglen is its flexibility. We can adapt it to suit the needs of the moment, pausing the guided audio at any time to extend the meditation if needed. This flexibility allows us to linger in moments of connection and release, honoring the unique journey of our animal companion. Another approach is to engage in this practice several times with guidance, allowing the rhythm and familiarity to deepen our understanding. Then, as we become more comfortable, we can transition to practicing on our own, moving through the meditation more spaciously and slowly, allowing for a deeper, more personal connection to unfold.
In these tender moments, as we navigate the inevitable transitions of life and death with our animal companions, Tonglen offers a pathway to grace and acceptance. Through our shared breath and boundless compassion, we honor the sacredness of their journey and find solace in the interconnectedness of all beings, thereby also extending our direct experience with impermanence, interconnectedness and the truth of suffering.
Remember to do Refuge and Bodhicitta and Dedication if these are a part of your practice.
The music for this episode is “Starlight” - by Podington Bear of Portland, Oregon - Thanks to composer Chad Crouch. Support Chad here.