I find it amazing how just a few words can convey such strong thoughts and emotions. Psychologist Kevin Anderson developed what he calls ‘nested meditation’. He created a strict format for having fun with words. It sounds like an oxymoron, but the process can be playful, or can help reframe a tough situation.
The exercise starts with one line and then it is repeated. As the lines are repeated, something magical happens! Deeper layers of observation begin to unfold.
We are all one.
We are all one step from the edge.
We are all one step from the edge of the annihilation.
We are all one step from the edge of annihilation of all hatred.
Here is another from his collection of meditations called Divinity in Disguise.
How can this suffering be?
How can this suffering be a gift?
How can this suffering be a gift? Rip it open.
How can this suffering be a gift? Rip it open and the heart floods with compassion.
**** Start with just a few words. Start with just a few words and…
I just tried a few nested meditations – Fun! Next time I’m sleepless in the middle of the night (tonight probably!) I’m going to do this.