Won Buddhism of Manhattan

Meditation brings wisdom; lack of meditation leaves ignorance. Know well what leads you forward and what hold you back, and choose the path that leads to wisdom.” ~ Buddha  

When Rev. Doyeon Park approached me to write a little something about my practice, my first thought was “but there’s nothing great enough to share about my practice.” With that, let me begin by saying there's really not much to share.

My practice is in its infantile stage. There is still much for me to learn and even more practice for me to do. But what I have learned and began practicing have been invaluable and life altering, albeit quiet and unassuming. Although it’s only been a few months since I began attending Won Buddhist temple’s Sunday meditation services, the times I’ve spent there have been significant and have found the Dharma talks to be profound and practical. 

One Sunday, Rev. Chung Lee spoke on and asked the congregation to practice seeing “the potential Buddha” in those whom we encounter in the upcoming week. It was a challenge that made a huge difference in how I handled, reacted and replied to situations. I found myself less frustrated and annoyed, my inner self was more peaceful and my mind calmer. That week had such an impact on me that I still remind myself to see the potential Buddha in others. 

Another Sunday, Rev. Lee spoke about simplification – simplifying our lives, our minds and purging what is unnecessary, material or otherwise – in order to make more room in our lives for what is necessary and desired. Though I have no problems ridding myself of material possessions, I do have a tendency to hold on to thoughts and past hurts. Carrying those around are a burden and a hindrance. 

A few weeks ago while walking to work, I noticed how tense my neck and shoulders were. I relaxed them, only to realize a few blocks later that they have tightened up again. I began to notice, at random times, how often my neck and shoulders became tight – while at work, on the computer, eating a meal, watching TV, etc. This awareness is significant to me because I have been plagued by migraines for over twenty years; so much so that I have different prescription medicines depending on where the headaches stem from, whether behind the eyes or muscle related originating from the neck area. As much as possible, I prefer not to medicate, and this is really how I was introduced to meditation. About three years ago, I met a woman also suffering from migraines who found that meditation helped her combat the headaches. Following her suggestion, I began meditating with the help of guided meditation CDs, which resulted in fewer migraine occurrences. This recent connection between my mind and my physiology gives me more than just another tool in fighting off migraines. My mental self has learned to recognize the state of my physical self enough for me to be able to make changes for the better. 

Becoming aware of this strain is a small thing but it has helped me tremendously. The root of the tension may still be a mystery to me but in due time, I will know that as well and be able to improve upon them. As I simplify and purge what’s unnecessary, including my thoughts, I become more open to increasing positive influences and productive energy around me. 

In my practice, I’ve learned that meditation brings peace, clarity and awareness. Awareness allows me to becoming mindful of the present, seeing past the immediate and understanding beyond words. Such insight leads to “letting go” of what’s unnecessary or have become a hindrance to me. This act of purging opens up more space for me to fill with what I need and want in my life. Do I find myself anxious to fill this newfound space? Sometimes. This version of me is unfamiliar. Although I find myself quickly wanting to “fill” the space, I trust my own process. I am excited for what lies ahead, but more importantly, I enjoy each present moment, even if I have to remind myself to be present. I am a more inspired person since diving within and knowing/learning more about myself. 

May. 2008