Rejoice in the positive

Meditation is an art of self-remembering. Gautam Buddha called it right mindfulness. Other mystics in India like Kabir, and Guru Nanak called it surati. Osho defines meditation as the consciousness of the self. While consciousness of the self is asmita (purity), just being aware that “I am”, self-consciousness implies ego.

For most of us, forgetfulness is easy, habitual. When we go against our habits, we face hindrance. Momentarily we may pull ourselves together, but soon we revert to our habits.

Osho tells us not to be discouraged by this. One moment is proof enough and it will give you such joy and freedom that you will never forget.

In his discourses on the songs of Kabir, Osho explains this with a wonderful method of meditation.

For example, you are sitting. You can remember and repeat: “I am here...” and feel it, not just the words, but the existence. Repeat it whenever you want to remember: “I am here”. And then, slowly, when you are capable of remembering, not just words in the head, but in the gut, then drop the word “here”. Then repeat, “I am” and that will do — and that will do far better. Just “I am”, a great remembrance, light and rooted feeling in existence. But don’t attach yourself to the words. When you have become capable of remembering “I am”, drop “I”. Then use the word “am”. Whenever you want to remember, just say “am” — but that too has to be dropped finally. These are not mantras to be repeated, these are just simple devices. Then drop “am” too and remember without using any word. You can give a small shrug or nudge and remember. Then even the nudge should be dropped. All devices have to be dropped because the human tendency is to become more attached to the device than to the purpose.

One more point to be remembered is that you have been living in forgetfulness for many lives. This may be your first chance to remember. Take the challenge. Never feel repentant. Accept the negative as it is and rejoice in the positive and the positive will go on growing and the negative will be reduced.

Swami Chaitanya Keerti, editor of Osho World, is the author of Osho Fragrance