Submitted by Ken Kemerling

I want to share with you some of my experiences, even though no one may consider himself an expert on the subject of meditation. I began a sitting practice in 2005. There is no “right” nor “wrong” way to go about meditation, even though your own beliefs may direct you down certain avenues and away from others. Having said that, my own early morning efforts might be described today as silent/focused/interval. The most common motive for meditation is relaxation and/or stress reduction. Health concerns may play a role, such as high-blood-pressure. And then there is the religious. It was not long after I began this practice that I realized I would be doing this, regularly, the rest of my life. Many dismiss the benefits of meditation. Not me. Other forms of sitting-meditation include guided vocal meditations. I recently began some of those and am excited about their potential. You should not view meditation as the exclusive interest of Eastern moral philosophies (Buddhism, Taoism, etc.). Not by any means. Most of these “Eastern” types of meditation seek to have an “empty” mind. (After some study I still do not understand how that works.) Contrast with that the “focused” mind quest of many Western types of meditation. Different paths to maybe similar goals. Whether these focii are “compassion”, “peace”, “Jesus”, or any number of religious, moral, or totally secular categories, you then concentrate and contemplate upon them in a relaxed and quiet manner. Start with a short time and expand that gradually. Be persistent and do your best to make your efforts a habit. Check with your spiritual and/or medical advisors for any questions you have.