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THE DYNAMICS OF MEDITATION
the color of your hair or wrinkles in your skin. We can slow this process down, but we can never stop it. Nature must work on our body, it is the nature of the body, and the nature of nature. The body is only the circumference, like the candle melting and changing its size and shape. At the center is you who, like the flame, do not change.
For the first week, relaxation and concentration are your lessons. Relax your body, watching its needs. Observe your mind's vagaries and fancies. Then concentrate on this flame, remembering its deep meaning. This meditation will give you an understanding of your center. With an understanding of your center, you will then learn how to command the circumference.
Questions
1. Should we concentrate on our body and thoughts for
twenty-four minutes or on the flame? First make the decision that you will sit for twentyfour minutes. Resolve to remain for the full time. Then watch your body as it wants to move about. See your restlessness and your habits and fancies. When anything comes into your mind, speak to it as you would to a child you love. Say "Now I have some work to do, so please leave me alone for awhile. I will have some time for you later, but not right now.” Gently come back to your concentration. For the first two or three days, do only this. Then add the visualization of the candle flame for the rest of the week.
