Often when the origin story of the Buddha's experience of awakening is discussed, it is said that Buddha "attained" enlightenment. Creating the impression and delusion that awakening is somewhere "out there," apart from our present reality.
Of course, this is partly due to the constricting nature of words clashing against the illusion of time and space! However, if seen through, this illusory gap between events disappears and experience is continuous and unbroken, happening NOW!
It is said that Buddha, with determination, sat down and vowed to remain seated until he had realized the true nature of things.
If I were to put this into a modern idiom I'd say that Buddha said "F##k it!" and gave up seeking for answers outside of his own mind. Bang - awakening!!!
SIMPLE MEDITATION, NO STRINGS ATTACHED
I believe that Non-Duality offers the ultimate explanation of the nature of reality, but it can and does leave us feeling isolated and defeated; being assured that there IS NO WAY to gain liberation from the suffering of separation, and that there is NOTHING that can be done to awaken leaves us with a deep sense of defeat. Buddhist teachings, when practiced (not believed, but practiced) bring a presence of consciousness that offers relief from the deluded mind that constantly buzzes and ruminates.
A simple practice like Vipassana, or Insight Meditation helps settle the mind - as thoughts are observed without engagement.
In my experience, any form of meditation; TM, Contemplative Prayer, Breath Meditation, and Silent Sitting Meditation, offer the best way to calm the mind and observe the thought patterns that usually control our thinking. Meditation for its own sake, without any expectation of gain is the best approach; letting the mind come to rest.
SIMPLE BUT RADICAL ACCEPTANCE
The experience of awakening is often given the "Hollywood" treatment; picturing the expansion of awareness as flashing lights, kaleidoscope visions, and blissful images. The reality is that awakening is quite simply the awareness and acceptance of life just as it is. When the mind's grasping for reality to be different than is calmed - there is a diminished sense of separation from everything. It is just THIS, LIFE as it is.
All of this is simple in concept - but almost impossible to perceive as long as the mind drives seeking and satisfaction of its own expectations. Meditation helps.
Just as material gain does not bring everlasting happiness. Meditation is not the path to awakening. But Meditation is a tool that helps the mind to find itself, and in that contentment is awakening and happiness.
Twice a day - for 20 minutes. Be consistent. Don't give up.
REMEMBER: Don't meditate for a purpose - meditate for its own sake. Like breathing it doesn't have to be forced.
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