A fence is generally regarded as a source of protection. But it can be a source of fear as well, because where there is a ‘fence' there is both ‘defense' and ‘offense'. To be surrounded by three fences can even be taken as an imprisonment.

As a matter of fact it is an imprisonment of the heart. That magnanimous capacity of our hearts to feel for others, to wish for others remains imprisoned. We remain selfish, stingy, mean and resentful. What if we let go of the fences one by one, with the help of metta or loving kindness. It will be a blissful experience of the deliverance of the heart. There will then be neither defense nor offense. In that large heartedness there will be a recognition of the truth that all beings wish for happiness. Then ones heart can throb for others and feel for others in sympathy with their wish for happiness. Like a beacon it will beam the radiant message of ‘metta' in all directions : May all beings be well and happy - be well and happy - be happy, happy, happy!