Mindfulnes in Our Daily Life

I am a advent believer in the power of meditation. I began my journey about 6 months ago, really getting back into my own practice and delving head first into meditation. My personal goal isn't unlike many others, I hope to quiet my mind, listen to the answers that are brought to me and find that inner peace. Living in LA we are surrounded by noise, chaos, tourist, construction, car alarms, horns, traffic, and just whatever else we come across; so naturally looking for a quiet space is difficult.

I found this solitude within my home in a small corner of my living room, and trust me it is not the size of the space but the quality of it. I have my Buddhas, Inscents, candles and just enough room to sit Indian-style (or Lotus) and 'not think'. This is my true corner of quiet, my space that I can retreat to for 15 minutes to 2 hours, whatever I can spare.

Often times, not having the space or being able to find the time is mostly what keeps us from advancing forward. Especially in something that has to be self motivating, wanting to meditate has to be a decision you make. Don't do it cause it's hip and everyone is talking about how cool it is. Don't do it because you want to escape from what's currently going on in the 'now'; and definitely don't do it because you want to reach 'Enlightment' (whatever that means for you). If reaching enlightment were that easy, everyone would be there and then where would you go? Meditation is simply a tool to get you to open your eyes, your mind, your heart, your soul to all that really is around you. To stop looking at what you don't have, what you need, what you lack and just take a moment to be gracious and grateful for where you are and all that you DO have.

Being gracious and grateful are after all the first steps in getting more of what you truly want.

So, find a spot. Go to a park. Go to the beach. Sit in your walk-in closet and just concentrate on your breathe. Don't worry about the thoughts, the shopping list, the whats on TV tonight that may pop up, acknowledge them and let them pass. Return back to your breathing and concentrate. Meditation is not something you will accomplish over night, but it can make a big difference in your life in just one night.

Peace and Love

p.s. The link below is from Oprah.com - a handy list of several wonderful guided mediations that are great to get you started. Peace.
http://www.Oprah.com/article/spirit/inspiration/20080731_orig_soundstrue_body