I (would) like to meditate. I attempt mediation… which is likely half my problem with meditation.

 

One of my challenges with my mind is that I am such a multi-tasker, and have been for so long, that my natural tendency is to have multiple "voices" running in my mind at all times. At work this is an asset.  I can be working on one thing and still be aware of other things.  I can "juggle" many priorities and tasks during the day. I can focus well for stretches, but need periodic breaks to survey my mind for other threads that need attention. 

  

Anyway, when I meditate with a mantra, I find that I can concentrate on the mantra for a short period of time, repeating it, breathing it in and out, being very conscious and in the here and now… and still be composing a grocery list at the same time.  The interal voice that is repeating the mantra continues. And another internal voice is saying: toothpaste, yogurt, eggs.

 

My new tactic for meditaion is that, when I find that other voice butting in, I get that voice to also start saying the mantra. It sounds something like this:

 

Om Mane Padme Hum.