Posted by nicolas on August 19, 2004, at 16:06:23
Hello,
I have suffered from mental illness for the last three years but continue to struggle on, aided by grace and faith.
I have recently begun to practice Buddhist meditation. Although I am a Christian, I find that 'Insight' and 'Lovingkindness' meditations are in no way opposed to my faith; in fact, the emphasis on compassion synergizes completely with Christian prayer.
Since I began to sit for half an hour everyday I feel that I have been greatly healed. Negative thoughts will arise but I let them pass like a cloud through the sky, and my heart remains open. If anyone is interested in this practice I recommend a book by Joseph Goldstein entitled: Insight Meditation, published by Shambhala press.
As I practice I find a way beyond the thoughts that used to trap me, and I find I can radically accept myself.
poster:nicolas
thread:379552
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/faith/20040729/msgs/379552.html