Resistance to practice?

We are sentient creatures, and therefore easily distracted, and resistant to changing our habits. We just have to remember we have chosen our path of recognising our truth nature. No one made you do it!

 There are many reasons why we find ourselves reluctant to practise.

Unsuitable practice.
Not clear why you are doing it.
Insufficient instruction.
We have forgotten why we are practising.
The mind is habitually dull.
The mind is too active.
We are lazy.
We cannot find the time.
Pride.
Need sleep.

(I experience all the above…10 is quite popular!)

These are the classical reasons used, and any one of them may be significant – but there is more to it than that.

 Merely being aware that the mind is resistant reveals awareness itself, and that is practice itself. It is not what we are doing that is important: it is the awareness that is important. Being spontaneously present, open and not doubting.

 Sometimes we just try too hard. We came to the Dharma because we wanted to know the truth, so at least we have the right intention. Sometimes, we may feel that we are practising by rote – mechanically. This is ok: just do not give up. Stick to the allotted time: it’s best to have a sacred routine. This is a matter of maintaining the uncovering of knowing. After all, this knowingness is our true nature.

 We are merely practising being ourselves,
and not the imitation we have become used to.
Meditation is merely becoming familiar
with reality.

 There is no need to beat ourselves up.
That which is aware
– awareness –
is doubting itself and trying to beat up
that which isn’t aware.
That doesn’t make sense.
There is no need!

When knowing is present
not knowing disappears.
When the light is switched on in a room
that has been in darkness for a thousand years
instantly everything is seen.

 Meditation, rituals, chanting
can be enjoyable and relaxing.
Give yourself some precious time
just to be.
Best to sit and do nothing.
There is a need for that.