I just finished my first seven-day silent retreat. That means I didn't speak for seven days. Can you imagine? Not a word. It was difficult, for sure, but I was not alone. There were over 40 other people there, too, spending the week in complete silence.

For us in the West especially, where there is so much self-judgment, ambition and confusion. To have compassion and loving kindness be the basis for wise attention changes everything.

This process doesn't have a clear end, it's ongoing. If you have any draw to the practice, move toward it. You can start by simply starting to pay attention to what's happening in any given moment. Even if you feel skeptical, you know on an intuitive level -- bitter does not age well.

Remember to be gentle and truly appreciate yourself for all of your unlimited potential. Celebrate your imperfections, because they are also a part of who you are and what you have to share with others!