How to use the meditations
1. Find a quiet place where you will not be disturbed.
2. Read through the whole meditation a few times, then put it down.
3. Sit in a position both comfortable and alert.
4. Allow the meditation 10 minutes or so in your imagination. Do not give up before this time; stay with it.
5. Allow another 10 minutes for recording what happened. Allow events to develop as you record. |
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MEDITATION 19
THE ACROBATS
Buddha told the story of the two acrobats.
The two acrobats made their living by balancing on a pole.
The teacher would hold the pole, and the young child would climb it.
This was how they made their living.
A slip by either would be a disaster, and they needed to concentrate.
Then one day, the teacher said that if they wished to avoid accidents and carry on making their living in this way, then it would be wise if they looked out for each other. He would look out for the child as she climbed, and she should look out for him as he held the pole. This way they would be more likely to be able to carry on making a living.
But the child said "No".
"Dear master," she said, "I think it would be better if each of us watched our self. To look after one self means to look after both of us. That way I am sure we will avoid accidents and earn enough to make a living."
Buddha reckoned the girl was right.
MEDITATE
Consider the story of the acrobats. Imagine you are there. How does it feel? Fill out the scene.
Consider how you might resemble the teacher in the story; who held the pole.
Who in your life might resemble the little girl?
Or do you yourself feel more like the little girl, climbing a pole held by another?
Are you keen to look out for others? But not always look out for yourself?
Or are you damaged by others determinedly looking out for you?
How can you best help people?
More one-minute mysticism |
