Notice Obstacles to Love
Here is a quick explanation of the five hindrances that we discussed last week in group:
- Desire (Sensual Craving) – Wanting things to be different or better (like comfort, pleasure, or success). In Christian terms, this is like temptation or longing for worldly things instead of trusting God’s sufficiency.
- Aversion (Ill-Will) – Anger, resentment, or frustration toward others or situations. This echoes the idea of unforgiveness or being stuck in judgment instead of choosing love and mercy.
- Sloth and Torpor – Feeling mentally or physically sluggish; lacking energy or motivation. Similar to spiritual laziness or apathy in faith, when one stops seeking God or avoids doing good.
- Restlessness and Worry – An anxious, unsettled mind that can’t focus or trust. This resembles anxiety and distraction, pulling us away from peace and prayer.
- Doubt – A lack of confidence in the path, oneself, or spiritual practice. In Christian language, this is like spiritual doubt, which can make faith feel shaky and distant.
Knowing the Five Hindrances is helpful in mindfulness meditation because they name the inner distractions that pull you away from being fully present. Here’s why it matters:
- They help you recognize what’s going on in your mind instead of reacting automatically.
- They give you language to name what’s blocking your peace—like, “Oh, I’m caught in worry right now,” or “I’m feeling resistance.”
- They allow you to respond with kindness, not judgment, just noticing, letting go and returning to the moment.
- Over time, you learn to see these hindrances as normal and temporary, not personal failures.
- They deepen your wisdom, helping you see what gets in the way of love, truth, or connection—whether you’re sitting in silence or living daily life.
I find mindfulness meditation supports my intention to notice obstacles to love ….if only for a moment.
Mondays & Thursdays
12:15 – 12:45 pm
Room 407 @ Second Presbyterian Church
7700 North Meridian Street, Indianapolis, IN 46260
or
Zoom! – https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83998337582
Meeting ID: 839 9833 7582 – Password: 672891
Join others in Mindfulness Meditation on Mondays and Thursdays at 12:15 pm. Brief discussion, followed by silent practice and concluding with observations, comments or wonderings. Take refuge in the present moment. Mindfulness Meditation is the opportunity to rest in Presence in a supportive environment with others. No experience, fee or registration is necessary.
P. Scott Sweet, LCSW, LCAC
Executive Director
CenterPoint Counseling