For the last three days I have practiced the method of basic insight meditation as suggested by Ven. Mahasi Sayodaw. Like any new endeavor, judging my progress by my feelings of enthusiasm or frustration is probably not a good measure of facts. It was recently suggested to me that since uncertainty is a hindrance to concentration, to focus on and start from a position of what I am certain of. So, what do I know for certain regarding my practice as it relates to this new stage of development? To be honest, I feel that all I am certain about thus far I said a moment ago: Feelings aren't facts. Keep practicing regardless of them, good or bad, and more will be revealed.
I am also willing to be certain of the following "on loan" until I am able to be certain of it through the purchase of my direct experience:
"At the moment of breathing in, there is just the rising movement of the abdomen and the knowing of the movement, but there is no self besides; at the moment of breathing out, there is just the falling movement of the abdomen and the knowing of the movement, but there is no self besides" - Ven. Mahasi Sayodaw, The Progress of Insight
GOAL: I will continue to practice this form of meditation and to do so in a spirit of joy.
PS: I leave to begin my PCT hike in two days!
