So very very necessary. Such a beautiful heart-opening practice. I am discovering how metta meditation actually begins to allow transformation in the way I deal with difficult people. There is the possibility of avoiding flaming into conflict - rather, seeing with eyes of compassion and seeing the pain that another must be in to flail out at us... huge challenge. But the only path that leads into deep, lasting peace. Thanks, Kira. 

Dearest Kate, yes, the practices have helped me in the same way. xok