The ocean is constant in its depths. It remains still and untroubled by the surface movement of the waves. While a storm may churn the surface, deep down all is still and silent. This is the way of the mind as well. On the surface the waves of thought and feelings of anxiety and worry may disturb and hide the deep silence in the depths. But by waking up and choosing to be conscious, it’s possible to move into the stillness and observe the surface thoughts and reactions. From this deep inner silence, actions can be consciously chosen. It’s possible to stop knee-jerk reactions and learn to move and act in new ways.  

By becoming conscious of the surface chatter of thoughts, it’s possible to observe and change them. By changing the language from one that emphasizes criticism and negativity to one that focuses on compassion and possibility, miracles can happen. In this short ocean meditation, sit quietly and observe the waves of thought and feeling. Observe them, but don’t get caught up in them. Dive deep within. You’ll begin to notice an awareness that is ever constant and present. Identify with this, the vast, still, peaceful part of the ocean.

A single drop of the water that falls into the ocean is no longer separate and apart. It discovers it has always been a part of the ocean. In this quiet place imagine being as broad and deep as the ocean. The challenge is to carry this expansive and quiet awareness into everyday activities.

Bio: Debra Moffitt is author of Awake in the World: 108 Practices to Live a Divinely Inspired Life. A visionary and teacher, she’s devoted to nurturing the spiritual in everyday life. She leads workshops on spiritual practices at the Sophia Institute and other venues in the U.S. and Europe. Her mind/body/spirit articles, essays and stories appear in publications around the globe and were broadcast by BBC World Services Radio. She has spent over fifteen years practicing meditation, working with dreams and doing spiritual practices. Visit her online at http://www.awakeintheworld.com.