Week 15 Day 4

Medi object: choiceless

Intention: labelling and being in the present

Toilet medi! Yes had to be as I am out this evening and from past experience, the spirit is willing but the body is weak if I try to meditate too late. This morning I was still weary from the night before so on the tube I read some MTCB instead. Might have to re-read that section as it was Ingram was talking about lists and lists, so I may need to write them down to remind myself. It was good though.

Ahem well, toilet meditation then. I set myself 15 mins as that is probably max time to spend in the bog. In fact it is quite a pleasant location to meditate besides the vague toilet smells. There is an automatic air freshener, next time(!) I'll need to sit near that.

I followed my breathing and felt the pulsating of my fingers, my feet on the ground. I saw white in front of my eyes. I can still hear the ringing in my ears (oh dear) but it doesn't detract. I listened with interest when a couple of women (I presume!) came into use the facilities, what they do they do in that cubicle that makes so much noise? I don't ever remember ripping the toilet paper out of the holder so that it sounds like its coming off the wall?? Anyhoo, the funniest and maybe the ickiest thing is that they left the toilet WITHOUT HANDWASHING! EWY SICK! I know I can sometimes be the briefest of brief with handwashing but no, the first two definitely just walked passed the handbasins to the exit! The third one went to the sink. The fourth (in 15 mins) was loitering in the toilets - fantastic trumpet noseblowing and um...well other toilet noises. I had to smile it was a very entertaining 15 minutes. So it was a partial success as the toilet users were a big distraction, although I guess they formed part of my meditation! There is another loo at the end of the floor which I think is not used as much, and the cubicles are even larger. I will try those next time.

Still I felt calm with mind focused on breathing, noises, feeling and occasional seeing. So it is possible providing the smells are acceptable.

So tonight off to see Ruby Wax, will report back. And will see my dear friend Denise, not sure if we'll get a whole of time to talk but will be lovely to catch up. Hasta luego mis amigas!