Lighting Up the Incense of Our Hearts: The Metamorphosis of Fear into Love

To “light up the incense of our hearts” is to bring mindfulness into our daily lives.

Every human action perfumes the world with its fragrance. At some times, our heart's garden is undisclosed to us; at others, it may be wilted by the wounds of time. Buddhist psychology reminds us that when the seeds of fear overrun our garden, suffering is created for both others and ourselves.

Fear can be a dangerous toxin in our lives. It is not only the source of our unquenchable thirst for power, and the root cause of harmful illusions, but also a painful pollutant, bringing physical and mental sickness to both self and society.

This dharma talk looks briefly into understanding this pollutant and practicing with its antidote. In this way, by mindfully lighting up our hearts with goodness, wisdom, beauty, and love, we can find relief and transformation.

Senior dharma teachers ordained by Thich Nhat Hanh, Larry Ward PhD and Peggy Rowe EdD are the leading proponents of Engaged Buddhism in the United States. Deeply inspired by Thay and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., they have committed their lives to non-violent social change, healing, and transformation at all levels: from individuals and communities, to the global scale. Peggy and Larry are co-authors of the book Love's Garden: A Guide to Mindful Relationships.

Republished with kind permission of the Lotus Institute.