Monthly Meditation evening - A recent contemplation before a meditation
We often discuss how wanting things to be different from the way they are is the very cause of our self-suffering.  This is why when we practice - in formal and informal practice - we watch and acknowledge our thoughts.  It helps us to realise just how much of our thought is wanting things to be different - for ourselves, for our loved ones, our friends.  When we notice thoughts we are discovering things about ourselves.

One way in which we are wanting is to be entertained by thought, of projecting into the future or reminiscing about the past rather than experiencing what is happening right now.  Practice helps us realise that without the chitter-chatter there is nothing wrong in this moment and most importantly, all the wants - the new house, the new relationship, the new car, the new outfit - they are things outside of us and none of these things are going to make us happy for long if we are not already happy in the knowing of who we truly are.

The key is to cultivate a new relationship with wanting.  Understanding that they may be 'nice-to- have' things in our lives but everything will not be fixed once we have or achieve this or that.  We can also be pre-occupied with wanting others to be happy - that's great but we don't need to worry about them.  We can love the person without trying to fix them and their problems.  Be present for them, as we our for ourselves - self-compassion leads to compassion for all.  It is OK to want but be honest where the driving force is coming from.  If it is the 'once I have this' scenario we can take a pause, breathe, connect with the heart and feel all the sensations this understanding brings.

We may also find that being present in awareness, we naturally meet some of the needs we are seeking to fulfill from the outside - and often in the most unexpected ways.  Stay open to all life has to offer.

Life will be what it will be, life is king.