Where the Coal Goes Quiet

This meditation is a companion to "The Burning Coal," a story about a young man who finally had the moment he'd spent sixteen years waiting for, and found he couldn't use it. If you haven't read the story yet, start with this week's newsletter. The meditation will be here when you're ready.

Before you press play:

• Find a quiet place where you won't be interrupted for twenty minutes. Close the door. If you share space with others, a simple sign that says "Back in 20 minutes" works.

• Silence your phone completely — not vibrate, silent.

• Sit or lie down, whatever lets you be still without falling asleep. A chair with your feet on the floor works well. So does the floor itself with a cushion or blanket.

• If you have an eye mask, use it. If you don't, a folded towel across your eyes does the same thing. Blocking the light helps your mind stop scanning the room and start settling inward.

• Have a blanket nearby. Your body temperature may drop slightly as you relax.

• If you'd like to write afterward, keep a journal or a piece of paper within reach so you don't have to go looking for one.

That's it. No special equipment, no experience necessary.

Just a quiet room and twenty minutes.

Yours in stillness, Michael Rose