There is no such thing as an experienced meditator. Every breath must be as if it is the first, every step a fresh event. A beginner's mind leads to a sense of gratitude for everything, whether or not the desires of my ego have been granted or life is going smoothly. A grateful heart for the rushing currents as well as for the still pools puts the ego in its place. This attitude that grows out of increased awareness does not come easily in the face of difficulties, but it is worth cultivating over a lifetime.
Everything we need for growing into a full, rich relationship with God is already available in our lives.We need to pray, stay open, and not become discouraged.A spiritual journey is not a competitive event; we can all be on a spiritual quest.God comes to each of us in the native language of our soul.Gradually the language grows and expands, but no one grows in just the same way as someone else.We need to accept ourselves as we are and keep ourselves open to being changed and shaped by a life lived in growing intimacy with God.