Monday, January 30, 2012

Staying with authentic experience....

A few friends gathered for a group meditation yesterday morning, which was part of a much broader "online community" meditation. I haven't done much of any "sitting" meditation for some time, and with others even less frequently.... However, something happened for me and the other 3 there, as we all agreed to share some of our experiences of what came up in the meditation, and how we might describe the "energy" within and between us, both during and afterwards, sitting in closer proximity. We agreed to "go deeper" than our usual safe, and familiar ways of communicating and relating to each other...(?)

I was aware of the great vulnerabilty I felt and the others also felt, but also of the great trust and responsibility that was implicit in our verbal reflections. Each one had a unique expression of what they had (and were) experiencing, and each one was able to be honest with the group about what was true and essential about what they saw and felt, in the moment. After finding a natural closing point, we relaxed into less intense being together, but the bond made during the meditation and reflections afterwards, made our "hanging out time" (over hot drinks) more potent and relaxed at the same time?!

If only we could carry that awareness and attentiveness out into our day.... and we can! Even if I have only very-superficial interactions with others in the course of a day, I can still remember their essential wholeness, through a brief meeting of the eyes, or any other more subtle soul imprint.... The urgent task before me is to also remember to hold the other with compassion!

I was also reminded by one of the group that each of us is here to do what we are good at, i.e. something that is unique to our particular experience and gifts. It was also reflected to me that each of us needs to put our gifts to their highest use, or towards where they will have the greatest impact. So, it thus follows that I need to revisit my musical gifts with this in mind, and to use my hands for music-making.... over and above swinging a hammer?.... Now if I could only find a way through this one!