Meditative Monday

 Hari Om

ध्यानवत् (dhyaanavat) - to be intent upon spiritual meditation.

Meditation is perceived (interpreted?) in a number of different ways; focused attention, deep thought, contemplation and so forth. All these things are true. 

For purposes of the act of meditation in Vedanta, however, each of these aspects is but a step toward the ultimate goal. True dhyaanam takes us to a point beyond thought, into a state of raw consciousness in which everything else is negated. 

To attain that level of detachment takes much practice, working through all the stages and challenges that arise from within us. There are many people who cannot meditate. The idea of stilling the monkey mind is just too much. It takes effort and the lure of Maya is too strong, misdirecting the focus. The rewards of the practice too numinous to fuel the desire for dedication.

It is an interesting phenomenon that even in regular practice, one must go through all the arguments inside with that mischievous river of thoughts. Each time adding another brick in the dam to stem the flow.

What is important is to not project any expectation. Rather, in sitting in dhyaanavat, simply acknowledge the intent. Keep acknowledging that at each time of sitting for this purpose. Concentrate on the intent - the promise to yourself to attempt the process. There will be advances and there will be retreats. There will, occasionally, be real breakthroughs and one is left elated... where care must be taken not to think the task is done. 

Sit again. Acknowledge the intent. Proceed.