I listened to an old friend talking about the discovery of meditation. I was reveling in his wonder and joy. I found myself going back in time, rediscovering a love that I still embrace daily. It is not as if I have lost my love to meditation, quite the contrary. I am convinced that I need meditation in my life as a discipline. Without it, there is little chance that I will stay near to my priorities and values.
Our conversation wandered around the subject, casually exploring ideas and experiences as friends do. As I headed out on the Harley, my mind began to link our conversation where we were both listening to learn to the goal of meditation. There are far more links between the two than there are differences. In both, each party is intentionally listening to the other. The purpose was to hear fully and completely. The outcome was a window to understand more. In both, there is a willingness to allow silence in. Rushing never improves a conversation. In both, the parties know that by allowing the process to work that each will come away richer for the patience.
It was amazing that we could have a dialogue when we did. Metaphorically, the scene was out of an old Greek story. Then, “downtown Athens was a great place for gossip. There were always people hanging around, natives and tourists alike, waiting for the latest tidbit on most anything.” (Acts 17.21) Now, we were in a busy shopping area where friends gathered for food, coffee, and best of all, gossip.
Conversations with those we love are crucial to living. We call these events by many names. When we listening with the intent of learning – it is dialogue. When we dialogue with the intent of embracing the other – it is meditation.
I sense that our conversation that began over lunch is just the beginning of a long dialogue and meditation. I am excited! It is wonderful to discover that an old friend is walking with me on the journey.
Others can join.
