Power of Now; Step-7
Published: 1997 & Pages: 236
11x Steps
Step-7
How to Stay Attentive
As you learn to separate yourself from your mind, you can try a technique called active waiting.
Active waiting is like being ready for something important to happen. In this state, all your attention is on the present, and there’s no time for daydreaming or worrying about the past or future. For instance, during an exam, focus fully on the work before you instead of worrying about the results.
In active waiting, pay attention to your body too, as it needs to be prepared for anything. This focus on the body is important for living in the present. Zen masters, for example, used this technique to help students stay alert. They would sneak up on students with closed eyes, forcing them to concentrate on their bodies and sense the approaching masters.
Many spiritual teachers, like Jesus, recommended this waiting state for a good life. Jesus advised his disciples to be like a servant waiting for the return of the master. The servant stays alert, doesn’t make big plans, and is always aware of the surroundings to not miss the master.
بسم اللہ الرحمان الرحیم
اردو ترجمہ جلد اپ لوڈ کیا جاےَگا، انشاءاللہ
10x Short Questions
1. What is active waiting, and why is it mentioned in the paragraph?
Active waiting is being ready for something important, and it’s mentioned to help stay focused on the present.
2. What distractions does active waiting eliminate?
Active waiting eliminates daydreaming, planning, and remembering that usually distract us from the present.
3. When is active waiting particularly useful, according to the paragraph?
It is particularly useful shortly before and during important events, like exams.
4. Why is paying attention to the body emphasized in active waiting?
It helps the body be ready for anything and is crucial for living in the present.
5. What example is given to illustrate the focus on the body in active waiting?
Zen masters sneaking up on closed-eyed students to help them concentrate on their bodies.
6. How does active waiting relate to the state of alertness described in the paragraph?
Active waiting keeps you in a state of alertness, like a servant waiting for the return of the master.
7. How does active waiting align with achieving a good and peaceful life, according to Jesus?
Jesus advised his disciples to be like a servant waiting for the return of the master, staying alert and avoiding making big plans.
8. What is the purpose of the servant's waiting, according to the paragraph?
The servant’s waiting is to be ready for the return of the master, staying alert and aware of the surroundings.
9. How do Zen masters use active waiting to teach their students?
They sneak up on students, forcing them to concentrate on their bodies and sense approaching challenges.
10. What important lesson can be learned from the concept of active waiting?
Active waiting teaches the importance of being fully present, attentive, and prepared for the uncertainties of life.
Check Your Knowledge
10x MCQs
NEXT STEP
PREVIOUS STEP
