I thought it might be useful to share a quick check-in on my own personal practice. Lately I’ve had plenty of opportunities for distracting thoughts, which is just great for practicing meditation.  I mean, if you want to hone your tennis game then you don’t play against someone lesser than you – even Buddha had Mara show up throughout his life to tempt him with distractions, to keep him on his toes.  It’s hard to grasp in our process/goal focused world, but meditation practice is not a zero-sum game. It’s not a game at all really.  Actually lately when I’ve been sitting it’s felt more like a restaurant, with a menu full of fabulous and tasty things for my mind to chew on instead of just focusing on the breath.   

Like some hot waiter from hell, the tantalizing offers just keep coming as one gleaming silver dish after another is presented to me.

“Here Jerry, try some of this delicious ‘You Should Be Writing Something for Your Blog’ Pie instead of just sitting here trying to do nothing. It’s just wonderful.”

“Oh, have you tasted the “What’s That weird Itch on My Back I Hope I’m Not Dying” Casserole? Everyone who’s tried it says it’s just divine.”

“I recommend you start with the “You Didn’t Exercise Enough This Week and You Don’t Have Enough in Your Savings Account” seven-layer-dip. It’s so creamy and satisfying, you’ll never want to stop eating it.”

“And for dessert, you simply can’t go wrong with “Remnants of New Age Flavored Abundance Exercises From Your Past” – let’s just keep it our little Secret, because you can eat all you want and never gain an ounce.”

Yes, my morning sessions have been challenging lately.   What my mind is trying to distract me from I have no idea – nor does it really matter, I suppose, not for practice anyways. 

What’s been keeping you distracted during your practice lately?  Anything specific like me or just a whirlwhind of thoughts? Or have your sessions lately been easier than mine?

Also this week, join the conversation around my article on Shambhala SunSpace about Buddhists and the environment.