I thought it might be useful to share a quick check-in on my own personal practice. Lately I’ve had plenty of opportunities for distracting thoughts, which is just great for practicing meditation. I mean, if you want to hone your tennis game then you don’t play against someone lesser than you – even Buddha had Mara show up throughout his life to tempt him with distractions, to keep him on his toes. It’s hard to grasp in our process\/goal focused world, but meditation practice is not a zero-sum game. It’s not a game at all really. Actually lately when I’ve been sitting it’s felt more like a restaurant, with a menu full of fabulous and tasty things for my mind to chew on instead of just focusing on the breath. <\/p>\n
\nLike some hot waiter from hell, the tantalizing offers just keep coming as one gleaming silver dish after another is presented to me.<\/p>\n
“Here Jerry, try some of this delicious ‘You Should Be Writing Something for Your Blog’ Pie instead of just sitting here trying to do nothing. It’s just wonderful.”<\/p>\n
“Oh, have you tasted the “What’s That weird Itch on My Back I Hope I’m Not Dying” Casserole? Everyone who’s tried it says it’s just divine.”<\/p>\n
“I recommend you start with the “You Didn’t Exercise Enough This Week and You Don’t Have Enough in Your Savings Account” seven-layer-dip. It’s so creamy and satisfying, you’ll never want to stop eating it.”<\/p>\n
“And for dessert, you simply can’t go wrong with “Remnants of New Age Flavored Abundance Exercises From Your Past” – let’s just keep it our little Secret, because you can eat all you want and never gain an ounce.”<\/p>\n
Yes, my morning sessions have been challenging lately. What my mind is trying to distract me from I have no idea – nor does it really matter, I suppose, not for practice anyways. <\/p>\n
What’s been keeping you distracted during your practice lately? Anything specific like me or just a whirlwhind of thoughts? Or have your sessions lately been easier than mine?<\/p>\n