TWO FAT FARANGS

To the temple tomorrow

I think I’ve taken the first steady steps on the road to Nirvana. I really seem to have taken my meditation to a new level over the past few days. I started meditating just as a relaxation method. I began with just a few simple breathing exercises, and at first I couldn’t settle as my knees ached sitting in the lotus position and my belly wasn’t comfortable in my lap. But the more I persevered with it the easier it became to slip into a state of… well, almost bliss I suppose.

All those troubles I had have now gone, just miniscule little moments in my life. I need my life to be more minimal now and dedicate my time to a more peaceful, lonesome existence.

I’m moving on tomorrow morning, and doubt I’ll have access to the internet where I’m going, (but I’ll try to sneak into a cafe if I get chance). I’ve found on the internet a temple that accepts short term stayers to test the water, to see if a life in the Sangha is for them.

I will wear the white robes for three weeks and see how it goes for me. Will I miss the things of my old life? Am I fooling myself into thinking I can live with little food, or human contact, or any self indulgence? Only one way to find out.

I’d never have thought I’d end up doing something like this. I always thought life was for living, not sitting doing nothing. But sitting doing nothing is the only way to live your life on an even keel. No more ups and down for me, just a long straight line of peace and tranquility… I hope.

Or I’ll probably just get bored after a few days and find the nearest bar.