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Sitting in meditation
Jamie asked me a while ago,'What happened to you, dad? A strong Christian one day, then...nothing.' Well Jame, thanks for noticing.
Truth is, I was having a hard time believing much of the party line long before I pulled away. Only my close friends knew that, as it is something that is just not said in the Christian camp. But that was my life and family, and it felt best not to rock the boat. But when I divorced, I simply felt like I didn't need to sing the party line anymore. I know that people 'back-slide'. This was a deliberate pull-back, going very much against the current. Although I still get an occasional 'praying for you' remark, my friends and family were exceptionally understanding.
Now-a-days I don't profess belief in any organized religion. One thing I DO believe, to which I owe what is left of my sanity, is the power of meditation. This practice is very misunderstood in the West (some sort of devil worship?) yet it is the backbone of most Eastern religions. I strongly believe Jesus spent much of his life in meditation.
What is it? Simply quieting the mind. Learning to bring the chaos of mind-chatter under control. Sitting (usually) and focusing on something: the breath, trickling water, a mantrum, whatever. When the mind wanders, gently bring it back to the present moment. This is what the Sitting statue inspires in me - the ultimate quiet mind. Without judgement, fear, anxiety.. In total peace, contentment, complete and unconditional love. The present - this is where God lives, and where I want to be. I am a long way from there, but sometimes, in the quiet of darkness, I get glimpses of it. Very sweet.
More food for thought; Check out the following:
Pssst: I know that many people see a sitting Buddha. In reality, it is a piece of white rock 'sitting' in my yard, which is a symbol that invokes a variety of responses from people. |
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