By Peter
We may have various reasons for meditating, but our primary goal is often to find relief from the daily stress and dissatisfaction we experience.
In 2020, I was struck by a severe sciatica attack and was desperate for relief. That’s when I decided to give meditation a try. I began by self-learning the basics and, in June 2021, I was fortunate to find this wonderful meditation class. I’ve been continuously learning and enjoying it ever since.
Meditation has proven to be an incredibly effective practice for managing my back pain. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is to accept and embrace the pain as it arises, rather than resist it. I’ve learned to let go of worries about tomorrow’s potential pain and instead focus on gratitude for my well-being in the present moment. I’ve come to terms with the fact that life can be both terrifying and beautiful. Meditation guides me to connect openly with both aspects. When I embrace life as it is, I discover a profound sense of inner peace. This peace doesn’t depend on the life I wish for—it arises from accepting the present moment and finding contentment within myself.
Meditation trains me in mindfulness. By cultivating mindfulness, I deepen my awareness of the present moment. This heightened awareness helps me better understand my physical capabilities and limitations in daily activities. For example, I pay closer attention to my posture while sitting, walking, and standing. As a result, I’ve become more mindful of actions that might strain my back, prompting me to pause before engaging in them.
With the power of mindfulness, we can live in the present moment—free from the shackles of regret about the past and anxiety about the future. This power leads us toward greater inner peace and joy, regardless of our circumstances.
I am a novice traveler on this journey of self-discovery, seeking deeper peace and joy. With the support of this wonderful community, I’m confident I can continue forward and experience even more profound moments of clarity and contentment.
May we all find peace and joy on our own journeys..
Hakone Zendo 