This teaching is recorded in the Discourse on Turning the Wheel of the Dharma (Dhamma Cakka Pavattana Sutta).

We need to shine the light of mindfulness on everything we do, so the darkness of forgetfulness will disappear. The first function of meditation — shamatha — is to stop.

Four Immeasurable Minds — love, compassion, joy, and equanimity.”

We need to be aware of the suffering, but retain our clarity, calmness, and strength so we can help transform the situation. The ocean of tears cannot drown us if karuna is there.

The second function of shamatha is calming.

We shed all discrimination and prejudice, and remove all boundaries between ourselves and others.

In the Discourse on the Four Establishments of Mindfulness

To develop compassion in ourselves, we need to practice mindful breathing, deep listening, and deep looking.

(1) Well-Being