How do you keep an open mind when you feel sadness in your heart throughout your meditation practice?

I acknowledge the thought or feeling is just that, and visualize it as a cloud over the ocean and puff it away and then try to focus on my breath and being in the present until the next random thought comes along and needs to be lovingly puffed away.

I would acknowledge the sad thoughts and feelings and then gently push them to the back of your mind throughout the meditation. It’s easier to focus on the guided meditation than to focus on what’s hurting you. If the thoughts stay in your mind then it’s okay, don’t push yourself too hard.