Reflection #4: Buddhist Meditation

This meditation experience was a fun and relaxing way for me to take a break from my regular hectic schedule and just focus on myself for 20 minutes. I had picked a spot in the corner of my room near the window, where the sun shines in and the cool breeze blows through the screen. Sitting cross legged on a cushion I straightened my back and closed my eyes. The first thing that struck me was the sounds in my room - or rather, the lack of them. I never realized how overwhelmingly silent the house was without the muffled voices from the TV, the clacking of keyboards or the shuffle of feet on the wooden floor. The first five minutes were hardest, just trying to clear my mind of all stressful thoughts. I could feel my mind wandering to homework, friends, volleyball and other significant parts of my life. Occasionally I'd open my eyes a peek to glance at the clock, checking to see how much longer of this I had. However, after constantly reminding myself to concentrate on deep breathing, I felt a sense of calmness in my mind and body. This experience made me more aware of what thoughts enter my mind, and helped me keep only the positive ones. I'm sure that each time I meditate is one step closer to reaching life's truths, or at least finding inspiration and peace of mind.