An Exploration: All Religions Practice Forms of Meditation

Dear Readers,

In my personal journey I have found myself often mis-judged and misunderstood by others whenever bringing up the topic of meditation. Some people view it as some detatched spiritual awe that sometimes includes loss of control and drug use. Christians ask me, "Well, what are you meditating on?" I like to say, "Prayer is when you talk to God, meditation is when you listen."

Now, I have no interest in beginning a religious debate, nor do I formally tie myself to any religious title, however, whenever faced with the harshness of others I often remind them the more you study the world's religions the more you will find they are all very, very similar and everyone is convinced their own is the truth.

I love mindfulness for it's diversity and the inner sanctuary and healing it can bring to anyone. More and more I think meditation is more concrete and less abstract, yet so many people continue to misunderstand it and it's use to alleviate suffering and replace perspective. Many even express an inability to comprehend just how to meditate. Granted, I've had 6 years of moderate practice and study, but I just really wanted to send home the concept that anyone can meditate and it's health benefits are many.

What have the people in your life said on the topic of meditation?

Additional Reading From the Source:

All Religions Practice Forms of Meditation, 8/27/2012

"Despite the fact that meditation can take many forms, universal principles can be found in all systems. The whole being (body, mind, emotion) is actively applied, through a variety of focus points, to develop awareness, insight, and transformation."