Prologue to the Rule (paragraph 8)

If, however, you find in it anything which seems rather strict, but which is demanded reasonably for the correction of vice or the preservation of love, do not let that frighten you into fleeing from the way of salvation; it is a way which is bound to seem narrow to start with. (From para. 8 of Prologue to the Rule of Saint Benedict's Rule, trans. by Patrick Barry, OSB, 1997.)

For me, this teaching can apply precisely to the discipline of meditation: Fidelity to the mantra corrects the mind that wanders, the heart that sulks. "It is a way which is bound to seem narrow to start with", as my consciousness finds it way to the Lord.

Prologue to the Rule (paragraph 7)

We must, therefore, prepare our hearts and bodies to serve him under the guidance of holy obedience. (From para. 7 of Prologue to the Rule of Saint Benedict's Rule, trans. by Patrick Barry, OSB, 1997.)

For me, this passage is not about rules and restrictions. It's about a relationship with God which leads me (eventually) to self-control and to continuous prayer.

Prologue to the Rule (paragraph 6)

For that very reason also, so that we may mend our evil ways, the days of our mortal lives are allowed us as a sort of truce for improvement. (From para. 6 of Prologue to the Rule of Saint Benedict's Rule, trans. by Patrick Barry, OSB, 1997.)

A truce in hostilities is what comes to my mind. Trust in God rather than ego-fear. Peace of mind and heart to cease struggling with life, and to accept its conditions. A truce for the heart to expand. That is what meditation is.

Prologue to the Rule (paragraph 5)

And so to prepare ourselves for the journey before us let us renew our faith and set ourselves high standards by which to lead our lives. The gospel should be our guide in following the way of Christ to prepare ourselves for his presence in the kingdom to which he has called us. (From para. 5 of Prologue to the Rule of Saint Benedict's Rule, trans. by Patrick Barry, OSB, 1997.)

For me, the high standards are being kind and unafraid, in imitation of -- in the presence of --  Jesus. I believe this creates the kingdom of God on earth.

Prologue to the Rule (paragraph 4)

We can see with what loving concern the Lord points out to us the path of life. (From Prologue to the Rule of Saint Benedict's Rule, trans. by Patrick Barry, OSB, 1997.)

The path to life that the Lord points out to me is to be "here I am" right now, in communion with him. I await the grace of his guidance only to take the next step, to do the next thing, in faith.

Prologue to the Rule (paragraph 3)

Let us open our eyes to the light that can change us into the likeness of God. (From para. 3 of Prologue to The Rule of Saint Benedict's Rule, trans. by Patrick Barry, OSB, 1997.)

May I wake up now, and open my eyes to the light of a unifying consciousness, a realized heart.

Prologue to The Rule (paragraphs 1-2)

It is not easy to accept and persevere in obedience, but it is the way to return to Christ, when you have strayed through the laxity and carelessness of disobedience. (From para. 1 of Prologue to The Rule of Saint Benedict's Rule, trans. by Patrick Barry, OSB, 1997.)

What has meditation taught me? To move naturally like the breath, not harshly, like the ego. To listen, with the ear of the heart, to life itself. And to return, always to return, with fidelity. Christ welcomes me, and resolves the paradox implied in "returning" to fidelity.