Lifestyle

Meditation: The Matchless Gift

Almost ten years ago I found myself becoming interested in meditation. Although everything on the outside seemed fine, I was in good health, I had a caring and supportive family, a good job – I had just been promoted to manager of a gallery in Ottawa… but something was missing. Quite infrequently in my life, mostly while spending time in nature, I had experienced feelings of peace. I tried to hold onto those moments but unfortunately they slipped through my fingers. More frequently, however, I was experiencing quite the opposite, a general feeling of discontentment. I knew meditation would help me, but I didn't know where to start.

There were so many "spiritual" options available at the outset of my search that I nearly gave up before I started. The billboard downstairs from the gallery advertised countless different retreats and seminars, I felt dizzy just looking at it. One day, two people came in, looking for a particular item. We ended up talking and they invited me to a class. Immediately I started practicing what I had been taught by my new friends. I was intrigued to meet people who were genuinely happy and who wanted to pass on this knowledge so generously, they weren't charging any money for their classes. I was so surprised - it wasn't boring, it wasn't hard and it was refreshingly attainable. This was something I could do on a practical level.

I look back now and I'm able to see the progress I've made. I am more focused and able to concentrate now. I have a sense of peace and joy that I never knew was available and I'm much more inclined to put myself in another's shoes and treat them as I would want to be treated. My understanding of what real love is has grown immensely. I never regret the time that I spend meditating, it has seen me through some of my biggest battles including the death of my grandmother, a loved one's struggle with alcoholism, and just recently a personal brush with death. While I was in the hospital I was able to find a place of hope and purpose inside despite my critical condition. This is due to the simple mantras that I have been practicing since that first day.

Here in Toronto, and around the world, there are people just like the ones who befriended me in Ottawa, who give ongoing free classes each week. You can easily contact them, ask any questions you like, and sign up for a class in your area. I look forward to meeting you at one of the meditation gatherings!

- Anna M.