There are many methods for meditation, but only one way to meditate. If you do not understand how the mind works, you will never be able to truly meditate.
Everything has a nature and the nature of the mind is to have thoughts. (The mind is doing what it is supposed to do.) This is important to understand before we begin meditation so we can approach our mind as a friend, and not an enemy.
The mind is like a top. It is spinning so fast, we think it is standing still. It is only when the mind begins to slow down, (through meditation) that we are able to “watch” the thoughts.
Meditation is not about “trying” to rid the mind of thoughts. When we say, “Do not think of a monkey", what is the first thing we think of? The problem is not the thoughts, but us. We think we are our thoughts and feel compelled to chase after them. This sets up a never-ending cycle of a mind that never stops. In other words, the tail is wagging the dog, rather than the dog wagging the tail. (to be continued)
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Posted by: James | May 18, 2008 at 12:43 AM
From the Dalai Lama:
Take into account that great love and great achievements involve great risk.
When you lose, don't lose the lesson.
Follow the three R's: Respect for self, Respect for others, Responsibility for all your actions.
Remember that not getting what you want is sometimes a wonderful stroke of luck.
Learn the rules so you know how to break them properly.
Don't let a little dispute injure a great friendship.
When you realize you've made a mistake, take immediate steps to correct it.
Spend some time alone every day.
Open your arms to change, but don't let go of your values.
Remember that silence is sometimes the best answer.
Live a good, honorable life. Then when you get older and think back, you'll be able to enjoy it a second time.
A loving atmosphere in your home is the foundation for your life.
In disagreements with loved ones, deal only with the current situation. Don't bring up the past.
Share your knowledge. It's a way to achieve immortality.
Be gentle with the earth.
Once a year, go someplace you've never been before.
Remember that the best relationship is one in which your love for each other exceeds your need for each other.
Judge your success by what you had to give up in order to get it.
Approach love and cooking with reckless abandon.
Dalai Lama:
Formerly the ruler and chief monk of Tibet, believed to be a reincarnation of Avalokitesvara and sought for among newborn children after the death of the preceding Dalai Lama.
jloft@mac.com
Posted by: Judy | November 28, 2008 at 05:27 AM