These miraculous molecular structures; earthen temples; perishable abodes of imperishable Spirit, are space-time events supportive of a collective dream; unconscious players in a cosmic drama.
In meditation practice it isn’t our chosen focus that is most important, but the ability to direct a steady flow of attention; the act of remaining focused itself, that is key to success. Of course, having something to focus on – mantra, symbol, breath, etc. – is essential, otherwise attention scatters and fluctuates, and we remain mind oriented. We meditate to transcend thought processing and mental excursions to realize conditionless clarified awareness, which yogis refer to as “superconsciousness.”
At first, attempts to sustain a single focus of attention for an extended period can be difficult or can seem nearly impossible when first learning to meditate, especially for us in the west. This is due to our prevalent cultural conditioning which emphasizes “stimulation through diversity.” However, with regular application, beginning with short sessions and gradually increasing the length of practice, this conditioning can be overcome.
Renunciation is internal, not enacted through self-denial and material impoverishment. To realize “right relationship” with this material world we need not renounce possessions, only possessiveness. This is effortless and natural when we recognize the impermanent nature of relative life unfolding and our place in it, as imperishable spiritual beings.
It isn’t the window through which we look upon life; the level of awareness we currently perceive through, but That which perceives, which is of utmost importance.
That which perceives through the fluctuating medium of mind, remains; is permanent, while relative or conditioned perception of what we behold represents our personalized awareness and understanding.
In meditation practice it isn’t our chosen focus that is most important, but the ability to direct a steady flow of attention; the act of remaining focused itself, that is key to success. Of course, having something to focus on – mantra, symbol, breath, etc. – is essential, otherwise attention scatters and fluctuates, and we remain mind oriented. We meditate to transcend thought processing and mental excursions to realize conditionless clarified awareness, which yogis refer to as “superconsciousness.”
