Monday, 25 February 2008

19. Meditation/Contemplation

Existing: The self-discipline and art of meditative reflection that prepares you for intimacy with others and gives you a sense of being part of something bigger than yourself.

Existing online: The self discipline and art of meditative reflection that prepares you for intimacy with others and that gives you a sense of being part of something bigger than yourself.

Proposed: Contemplation
Developing self-discipline through the art of meditative reflection, which provides for greater calmness, clarity, presence and a sense of inner & outer unity.

Rationale: No need for "Asceticism. I believe this is a more accurate definition for the art and practice of contemplation/meditation

New Label: Meditation/Contemplation Old Label: Contemplation/Aestheticism

Final: The practice of bringing attention to our thoughts and perceptions for the purpose of creating greater understanding of ourselves and our world.

2020

The practice of bringing attention to our thoughts, emotions and perceptions for the purpose of creating greater calmess, clarity and understanding of Self.

10 comments:

  1. Like this, though not so sure about: "...sense of inner & outer unity" I'll meditate on this overnight!

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  2. Perhaps Self-awareness instead of self-discipline?

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  3. is self discipline being develop through this value or greater calmness clarity, presence and a sense of inner & outer unity. if the latter my suggestion for the the definition is

    Developing greater calmness, clarity, presence and a sense of inner & outer unity through the self disciplined art of meditative reflection.

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  4. I am noticing I seem to have a problem with the world discipline...even though I have a high regard for it.

    I think most people will recognize the word contemplation to mean think on things, so the question is for what purpose and how is it done.

    Certainly, any practice requires discipline but having that attribute will not increase clarity or self-awareness. Besides which, isn't meditation supposed to be "effortless effort"? :)

    How about:

    The practice of bringing attention to our thoughts and perceptions for the purpose of creating greater understanding and acceptance of ourselves and our world.

    Just another idea....

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  5. I'm getting the sense that the meaning of "self-discipline" is being skewed towards the interpretation of "self-punishment" as these days the common meaning of discipline is to "punish for breaking the rules" - I'm adding a separate entry just for the word discipline.

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  6. going back to the proposed definition. contemplation is about developing a self, or personal, code of conduct or way of living through meditative reflection ......

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  7. i'm in 'anorak' mode (being picky for non brits) and noticed i meant to put a comma after living as follows


    going back to the proposed definition. contemplation is about developing a self, or personal, code of conduct or way of living, through meditative reflection ..

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  8. As a matter of interest, WordNet specifies three senses for a asceticism:

    1. asceticism -- the doctrine that through renunciation of worldly pleasures it is possible to achieve a high spiritual or intellectual state

    2. austerity, asceticism, nonindulgence -- the trait of great self-denial (especially refraining from worldly pleasures)

    3. asceticism, ascesis -- rigorous self-denial and active self-restraint.

    And two senses for contemplation:

    1. contemplation -- a long and thoughtful observation

    2. contemplation, reflection, reflexion, rumination, musing, thoughtfulness -- a calm, lengthy, intent consideration

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  9. So, based on the original value descriptor and info from WordNet re Contemplation and Asceticism, how about:

    Contemplation/Self-Restraint -- Seeking to develop your mind (intellect) and spirit through meditative reflection in a climate of self-restraint.

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  10. To engage in disciplined reflective meditation.

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