In everyday life, we habitually try to conceal the gaps in our experience of mind and body. These gaps are a bit like an awkward silence around the table at a dinner party. A good host is supposed to keep the conversation going with his or her guests, to put them at ease. You might talk about the weather or the latest books you’ve read or what you are serving for dinner. We treat ourselves similarly. We occupy ourselves with subconscious chatter because we are uncomfortable with any gaps in our conversation with ourselves.

The purpose of the practice of meditation is to experience the gaps.

From “Cool Boredom,” in Mindfulness in Action: Making Friends with Yourself through Meditation and Everyday Awareness, page 32.

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