It must be ploughed and prepared for the seed, if the crop is to grow well. By applying counteractions to the disturbing emotions, we prepare the field of the mind. If the seed of compassion is planted in a well-ploughed and irrigated field, it win grow easily. The ability to see all living beings as lovable will make it impossible to bear their suffering. This is the measure of compassion entirely free from prejudice, namely from closeness to some and distance from others. Loving affection for living beings is the water with which to irrigate the field of the mind and make it fertile. – Bodhisattva Vow