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and still, beyond any change or interpretation. This is the source and support

of all that is. There is also relative reality, which your question points to. Rela-

tive reality is the truth as each person perceives it and expresses it through their

words and thoughts. Absolute Reality is beyond words and thoughts, beyond

change or differing perceptions. Relative reality is subject to change and may be

different for every person.

I feel like such a failure when it comes to meditation. I sit every day but all I do
is think! My mind is so active I don’t believe I will ever succeed. Should I just
give up?

Sitting for meditation on a regular basis is beneficial even if the mind remains

active. It is helpful to use a technique such as observing the breath, or intro-

ducing a mantra or word phrase such as “Om, peace”—mentally chanting “Om”

on inhalation and “peace” upon exhalation. Some people find that even when

they practice these techniques, thought activity remains. They notice they can

inwardly “multitask.” They can be aware of using the technique and engage with

thoughts at the same time. It may be helpful to know that this is not unusual and

that it is even possible to meditate with some thought activity remaining. The

distinction is that the thoughts become less compelling and we don’t get involved

with them.
While it can be frustrating to feel that we are not making progress in our medita-

tion sessions, we may observe that our steady practice is bringing other benefits

such as stress reduction, or more clarity and inner peace as we engage in our

daily activities. Be sure to look there as well.

InSPIRAtIOn FOR SPIRItuALLY COnSCIOuS LIvInG

As a spider spins out threads, then draws them into itself;
As plants sprout out from the earth;
As head and body hair grows from a living person;
So from the imperishable all things here spring.

—Mundaka Upanishad

When you go beyond the consciousness of this world, knowing that you are not the body
or the mind, and yet aware as never before that you exist—that divine consciousness is
what you are. You are That in which is rooted everything in the universe.

—Paramahansa Yogananda