Here is a thought -
What does the 'emptiness' feel like? Can you imagine/visualize/experience being in the 'emptiness'?
When you think of what the state ISN'T, you are attracting the experience of what you are thinking about.
When you think of what the state IS, you will attract the experience of being there.
If you don't have a clear idea of what you are seeking, it will be hard to find it.
[I remember a friend who could make bread because she didn't know what was meant by the description of the dough when it had been kneaded sufficiently. After discovering what she was looking for, it became easy for her to make all kinds of bread - and very rewarding!]
I have had challenges with experiencing the state of 'emptiness' and still struggle with it from time to time. For me, one of the things that has helped is to imagine that I have just asked a question about which I am genuinely curious and really have no answer. I wait - with my mind open to whatever my teacher/master may have to say - for the answer. No anticipating, no guessing, no trying to think it through for myself - just waiting to hear what the answer might be. - That is the 'emptiness'. It is a state of open receptivity.
And, as everybody has been saying, take it in small steps. First you have to recognize the state when you get into it. Then you have to figure out what you did to get you there. From there, it will make sense to recognize when you have dropped out of it - and you can relax back into it as often as is necessary for you. Maintaining that open state for only a matter of a few seconds - or minutes - is a great place to start. Celebrate your success!
Recognize you mind and thank it for working so actively for you so much of the time - then thank it for letting go and giving you the chance to experience the emptiness, too. Promise your mind that spending time in the emptiness will give it more exciting active work to do. This is true.
I wish you the best in finding the path to 'emptiness' or receptivity that works for you.
May you create a wonderful day!
Margaret Ida
