Q: Fr Keating, in his book Open Mind, Open Heart writes that it is possible for one to have a thought and not be affected by it. I am wondering how one would know because sometimes a feeling can be so subtle. Sometimes, this happens and I start asking myself if I am affected by it which is just another thought. What, if any, would be the signs that a thought has no bearing on a me during a period of Centering Prayer? I also would like to know if the active prayer practice is has its foundations in the Jesus Prayer tradition and practice.
A: Thanks for reaching out. As I read your question, I am wondering if you are using the term “thought” as Fr. Thomas did for the technical term meaning every perception coming to our awareness during Centering Prayer (i.e., body sensations, sense perceptions, feelings, images, memories, plans, reflections, concepts, commentaries, and spiritual experiences).
Thoughts in this sense are inevitable, integral, and a normal part of Centering Prayer. By ever so gently returning to our sacred symbol when we become aware we’ve engaged, we gradually let go of our over identification with ‘thoughts.’
The 4 R’s are:
- resist no thought;
- retain no thought;
- react emotionally to no thought, and
- return ever so gently to your sacred symbol.
It’s important to let go of analyzing our experience or having expectations. We are really surrendering with Radical, Invincible Trust into the arms of Love. Allowing ourselves to be Love into Life.
So when Fr. Thomas taught not to react emotionally, I believe he was directing us to drop the story we generally start, which only reinforces the emotion. Gradually, over years of practice, one is able at times to experience a certain detachment from the habitual commentaries.
I am a real believer that my job is simply to show up in the chair twice a day. And let Spirit do in me and with me and through me what needs to be done. I honestly don’t look back.
And I do consider the Jesus Prayer one of the sources for the teaching on the Active Prayer.
Hope I addressed your question or please feel free to clarify more.
In Peace,
Mary Dwyer
Contemplative Outreach
