From Peter Yau,
Like most people growing up in the US, the practice of Solitude is a rare concept. I grew up in Hong Kong, one of the world’s most densely populated island in SE Asia (7.4 million people in 400 sq. miles). Everywhere you go, there is a crowd, walking in a typical street pretty much takes no efforts on your own, you are bumped and pushed by others. In order to find sanity and your own space, people learn to focus their attention to one selves, rather than on others.
Today’s meditation is on enduring ourselves, how we find quietness in the midst of distractions and craziness.
The following is what I do:
Carve out a time and place for solitude. Find a place where you can be alone, or away from distractions. You can turn away from the crowd to find a moment of quietness. Avoid loud music, conversations and taking phone calls. Start bringing your attention to God, His Creation, His Majesty, His Works, giving praise and gratitude to God. Once you have quieted down, focus on breathing regularly, slowly and deliberately to reset your mind and body. Do not allow your mind to wander or fall asleep. Start with prayers of praises and confession, transition to areas that you want to dialogue with God. Do not be obsessed with a long shopping list of requests. Continue with slow and regular breathing, if time allows you to have an extra moment of silence, enjoy the experience, and otherwise transition yourself out.
Like most people growing up in the US, the practice of Solitude is a rare concept. I grew up in Hong Kong, one of the world’s most densely populated island in SE Asia (7.4 million people in 400 sq. miles). Everywhere you go, there is a crowd, walking in a typical street pretty much takes no efforts on your own, you are bumped and pushed by others. In order to find sanity and your own space, people learn to focus their attention to one selves, rather than on others.
Today’s meditation is on enduring ourselves, how we find quietness in the midst of distractions and craziness.
The following is what I do:
Carve out a time and place for solitude. Find a place where you can be alone, or away from distractions. You can turn away from the crowd to find a moment of quietness. Avoid loud music, conversations and taking phone calls. Start bringing your attention to God, His Creation, His Majesty, His Works, giving praise and gratitude to God. Once you have quieted down, focus on breathing regularly, slowly and deliberately to reset your mind and body. Do not allow your mind to wander or fall asleep. Start with prayers of praises and confession, transition to areas that you want to dialogue with God. Do not be obsessed with a long shopping list of requests. Continue with slow and regular breathing, if time allows you to have an extra moment of silence, enjoy the experience, and otherwise transition yourself out.
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