Contemplate This: Gilbert Mane on True Inquiry.

Sit quietly and relax. Let the mind come to rest and equilibrium.

Reflect on a genuine question, on an issue which you would like resolved. Imagine that there is a universal consciousness; a source of knowledge and compassion. Throw caution to the winds for the purposes of this exercise - what have you got to lose?

Frame a question and, with a spirit of openness and a willingness to accept help, ask the question quietly in your mind, or speak it aloud. Then gently let it go. Maintain this state of open willingness for a few moments.

Sometime an answer can come surprisingly quickly and clearly. Sometimes it takes a little time - hours, days, even weeks. Sometimes it pops into your mind or heart. Sometimes a chance phrase jumps off the page or from a snatch of conversation. And sometimes nothing appears to happen. Great. Give it another go. Rome wasn't built in a day.

This contemplation comes from Gilbert Mane's brilliant book, Seven Steps to Freedom.