Meditate on Life

Meditation doesn't really work for some. You hear often how boring and annoying it is just to sit there without doing anything. Yet, perhaps you actually mind the stuff that comes to the surface in this quiet time. When you are really sensitive, and when you allow yourself to listen to the voices inside, you will observe that there is boredom and pain buried inside. We prefer to run away from it instead, or drown it in busyness.

When we escape from our negative emotions and pain we will only accumulate more of it over time since we shy away from everything and everyone that triggers it for us. And while trying to block life's messengers out may seem convenient at times, it is not that useful. The spiritual traveler knows, life is here to help us. So perhaps you can try meditation for a change and get in touch with some of the negative stuff that lingers inside, like sadness, restlessness, or anger. Embrace every feeling inside and accept it. Only then will you be able to change your attitude towards it.

We are not saying that you shouldn't go out and have fun. Absolutely, go for it. All we are saying is you should try to be mindful of everything that is going on within you. Imagine you are going to a party. Most likely you will be swayed by the positive energy in the room, but be aware of your facial expressions after you leave the party. Are you still smiling or has your face turned sad again because you only used the event as a convenient distraction?

Meditation gives us a chance to accept ourselves as we are. When you cannot accept boredom, pain and the endless chatter in your head, sitting still indeed becomes like a torture. Yet, if you steadily develop and enhance this quiet time you will get to know yourself better. When you accept everything about you, you will also more likely to accept life as it comes. When the observer inside takes over, everything will become more quiet, peaceful and loving. It is as if you allow muddy water to settle, and in time, the bottom of the water becomes visible. Please give mindful living a try. It is well worth the effort!

By Christian and Su Zhen