"We don't sit in meditation to become good meditators. We sit in meditation to become more awake in our lives."
– Pema Chödrön
Every morning I come to the basement and sit in my favorite chair. I cover my legs with the wool blanket from the wicker basket.
I set the dimmer to just a hint of light in the quiet, dark room.
I settle in and get comfortable. On the table next to the chair is my meditation bowl and my wooden stick.
I gently hit the bowl with the stick and close my eyes. I breathe in and out as the sound of the bowl fades to nothing.
The sound of the bowl is replaced by the sound of the grandfather clock, the heater vent, the electricity from the cable box, a car door outside.
I continue to breathe. I don't try to "clear my mind" or "reach enlightenment" or "relax."
No, I am intent on being present with where I am and what is around me. The stillness is luxurious.
I sit for fifteen minutes. Thoughts come and go. Breaths come in and out. I remain still and listen to the sounds.
I do this every morning. I meditate so I can be alive for the rest of my day.
So I can be present in my conversations.
So I can stay focused on my tasks.
So I can be calm under pressure.
So I can respond instead of react.
So I can be my authentic self.