I adapted this guided visualization from the Buddhist lovingkindness meditation that I learned from Sharon Salzberg’s recorded teachings, but you don’t need to hold any particular belief to practice it. I find it to be a useful resource for keeping my heart open to people whose views and values contrast with my own. I hope you will find it beneficial as well. More details are available in my book, Facing the Fracture: How to Navigate the Challenges of Living in a Divided Nation. If you’re not ready to dive into compassion, try working your way up to it with the other guidance in the book.