Denting: What Helps

Awakened amidst negative thoughts emerging,
Surging aversion, doubts and gloomy mourning
Over mixed results and bad effects
Hijacked the attention,

But then from somewhere inside,
A voice inquired,
‘What can I do to help?’
And the response was metta,

The familiar phrases
Flooding upward gently,
Floating repeatedly
Through the agitated mind;

The comforting words
Flowed freely,
In accordance with
What was most needed,

And soon sparkling energy
Replaced lethargy,
Positive sentiments
Overcame negativity.

This mind operates best
When not oppressed
By unhelpful ruminations
On unpredictable frustrations,

Instead of obsessing
On what I think is wrong,
Which stresses the mind
And generates discouragement,

Evoking positive thoughts and feelings,
As a mind conditioned by these
Functions smoothly and with ease,
Arousing a sense of purpose and confidence
And sharpening the wits.