Meaningful Meditation

Meditation is the language of the soul. David O McKay.

Henry David Thoreau, after observing many of his neighbors spending their lives in frantic but joyless activities that brought them material things and debt, but no happiness, decided to regain the spiritual purity he felt as a child by living for a while at Walden Pond, in the woods near his hometown.
Although we probably cannot abandon our responsibilities as Thoreau did, we can profit by taking the time to for quiet meditation.

We may want to evaluate our lives; when was the last time I sat for more than five minutes and silently contemplated the beauty of a sunset? When did I last not only read uplifting material, but ponder it at length? When did I spend a few minutes in thoughtful preparation before prayer? How often do I pause to listen for answers to prayer and then ponder their significance in my life? When last have honed out all sound but those of birds, each with their distinctive sound or song?

Nearly all the great men of history sought solitude to ponder spiritual matters in their hearts. Serious reflection is necessary for our daily activities and it could change our days to be happy and thoughtful, taking others lives into consideration.
While most of us feel we do not have the time, many busy people find ways to enrich their lives through meditation.

A teacher I know closes her door during lunch break to read and contemplate uplifting material and the needs of her students, one name at a time. A college student conscientiously ponders aspects of his life while commuting by bus to and from college. Jeffrey R Holland suggests that we consider others good examples by practicing "the quiet, uninterrupted, thoughtful consideration of God and His goodness." Increased spiritual sensitivity as well as other blessings will accompany meditation.

Some self - help ideas :

• Take a few deep, slow breaths, breathing in through your nose and out your mouth.
• Remember your dreams. Are your dreams anxious, happy, chaotic? How do you feel after a dream? Are your dreams telling you something?
• Feel your feelings. Feel the places in your body where you feel tight, awkward, uncomfortable and in pain. Yoga stretching can be good.
• Spend a little time in the sun every day.
• Listen to inspiring music.
• Rest, repair and rejuvenate.
• You will feel happier, better adjusted, safer and secure.

Sources :RS courses of Study, Dr Hanley and Deville.