Question
How can I meditate to become enlightened? I am a Christian and want to start right away. I simply need instructions to start so I don't do it wrong.
Answer
Dear Randall
In the Christian tradition, prayer is when you talk to God, meditation is when you listen for his answer. The goal is to quiet your mind to allow inspiration and the word of God to come through. You don't need instructions, you can't do it wrong. The way most people start is to sit comfortably with your feet flat on the floor. Relax every muscle from head to your toes. Imagine yourself in a beautiful place, a place that has special meaning for you as a safe, fun, comfortable place. You do not have to have been there, it may be on the moon, if that appeals to you. Then you simply concentrate on your breathing, taking deep breaths, counting to four on the inhale and four on the exhale. As you relax and your mind wanders, pay attention to your thoughts. When one flickers across your consciousness, simply watch it go across your mind and let it go. Eventually you can detach from your thoughts and your realize that you are not your mind, your body, your thoughts. You can then listen to your heart and soul and find whatever enlightenment you wish. This process can take weeks, months, even years. Be patient and don't quit!
