I'm working on a meditation around the wounded heart.
We all have one. No exceptions. Most of us have sustained a good deal more than one wound, over the years. Some wounds to the heart are old and deep, some new and relatively trivial--a casual comment overheard, perhaps, or a momentary glance. The old ones are often toughened up with scar tissue and are buried deep in the unconscious mind; others still feel fresh after many years. The new wounds can feel especially raw and painful
The purpose of the meditation is simply to become aware of the wounded heart. It's not necessary to identify the wounds, though one or more might arise in the form of an insight or a memory released from some hidden place in the mind. If that happens, best not to dwell on it, but rather take a quick mental note and let it slip away. Better to mull it over later, not to allow it to become a distraction.
So the meditation is not about uncovering and contemplating specific wounds, whether old or new. Instead, it's more about observing the wounded heart itself, with compassionate awareness. It's more about using the breath to bring comfort and solace, understanding, and forgiveness where it's needed; more about massage than surgery, more about recognition and acceptance than removal. It may involve a patient acceptance of wounds that are so deep and have persisted so long that they are no longer susceptible to healing, and are better merely observed with a compassionate eye.
I have been trying to refine this meditation in my morning practice. It may take some time before I'm clear about it. No matter. I have the time...
Posts
3 comments:
I like that idea of recognition and acceptance. Sometimes you have to know and accept what is/was to find peace.
I thought I had responded to this entry.
I am working on the toughened up wounds that were cut open freshly a few years ago. I find meditation difficult since my brain spent the first 52 years of my life in charge of everything. Now that I have learned a thing or two, it fights me trying hard to tell me that I am an old fool but I persist.
Thank you for this post. I look forward to more.
Thanks to both for your comments. I used to be able to respond to each individually, but so much has changed since I was more adept on Blogger. Anyway, Linda, as hey say: I can relate--having lived for many years in my head. Meditation takes no more than patience, and a gentle reminder to return to your breath each time the attention strays. I have also learned to reward myself with a particularly lovely breath when I manage to get refocused. I do recommend persistence! It will pay off...
Post a Comment