ABSTRACT
Cultural practices and institutions that function to evoke kama muta include ‘cry dates,’ volunteering in caring for the needy and other sorts of compassionate caretaking, moments of connection between therapist and patient that build trust and enhance the therapeutic alliance, sharing stories in Alcoholics Anonymous and other addiction recovery groups and support groups. Other practices whose central function is to evoke kama muta include mindful self-compassion and certain loving-kindness meditations; survivors forgiving murderers in sentencing hearings; heroic sacrifice in war or sports; and sports victories that connect winning teams or victors with coaches, family, fans, and nation.
