Chapter 1: The Power of Presence

I remember standing over a straightforward four-foot putt, only to miss it. As I gazed at the ball, just six inches from the hole, I realized my mind was preoccupied with thoughts of dinner—specifically, chopping ginger and garlic for stir fry.

Golf may seem simple, but it’s deceptive. After realizing my wandering thoughts, I picked up the ball, took a deep breath, cleared my head, and confidently sank it this time. The satisfaction was immediate, with no distractions.

Overthinking and losing focus can obstruct our innate wisdom that knows how to navigate our experiences. Since that day on the golf course, I’ve made a conscious effort to maintain a clear and focused mind during every shot, resulting in improved accuracy and consistency.

This principle also applies to playing the piano. As I learn new pieces, I remind myself to relax and trust my body to guide me, making the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Listening to others requires the same approach. I breathe, engage with them, and release any intrusive thoughts. By being fully present, I can appreciate the moment—regardless of any disagreements. I trust that my responses will flow naturally when it's my turn to contribute.

Our overactive minds often complicate matters unnecessarily. To find peace and fulfillment, we must minimize these internal distractions. Everything we need for a richer life is already within us; we just need to tune our awareness to recognize it.

Let's explore the experience of meditation.

During my closed-eye meditation, as I delve deeper, my thoughts start to slow down. I find myself enveloped in what feels like a warm, loving light. In this state, I become an observer, reflecting on the essence of my being. Here, I connect with the infinite pool of consciousness that constitutes my true self, beyond ego or individual identity. I am simply consciousness inhabiting a human form.

This consciousness is always present; it’s I who occasionally drifts back into my individual identity. Each time I return to this inner sanctuary, I feel revitalized, grounded, and fulfilled—this is the true sanctuary I’ve longed for, a place of safety, love, and acceptance.

Reflecting on my upbringing, my family home wasn’t always a haven. There were moments of conflict and judgment, prompting me to seek something deeper. When I embarked on my spiritual journey years ago, I was in search of my true home. I eventually discovered it within myself through meditation—a realization that had eluded me for so long.

This inner home had been there since my childhood, particularly when I moved from Setauket, a quaint Long Island town, to Wellesley, Massachusetts. The transition was jarring; I felt isolated and struggled to find my place, leading to feelings of loneliness and despair.

Learning to meditate opened the door to my inner sanctuary, filled with abundance, love, light, and companionship. Once I tapped into this, I knew I would never truly be alone again, a truth that has remained with me for over fifty years.

The distractions that prevent us from accessing this inner peace are mere illusions. They become tangible only when we identify with them. By distancing ourselves from these interferences, we can see them for what they truly are—fleeting shadows, not our identity.

These distractions manifest as limiting beliefs, negative thought cycles, low self-worth, fear, and doubt. The more we release our attachment to these, the more we enhance our sense of fulfillment and happiness.

This isn’t fanciful thinking; it’s a grounded reality. If you can breathe, you can meditate. Regular mindfulness practice can lead to greater peace and fulfillment.

Remember, you become what you concentrate on. Focus on positivity, and release what no longer serves you. By doing so, you’ll be well on your way to experiencing your true home.

And one last thing—

I’m Don Johnson, an essayist exploring life, love, and the quest for peace, wholeness, and freedom.

Connect with me for occasional updates and a free copy of "111 Inspirational Quotes."