Interestingly, with a few of the people I know you've been there, done that - two of the ladies, married the guys with the kid on the way... been married for some time, and happily.
On the flip side, I know this guy who ended up marrying a girl who was pregnant. He raised the kid as his own, & they had two more together - still married, too.
I'd have to wonder what the circumstances were, and I admit, I'd be somewhat leery of a situation such as this & the possible drama it could bring.
As a side note, I do know of some people who have been and are in both of these types of dating / relationship scenarios. So long as you know exactly what you're getting into & are cool with it, I say hey - whatever works for ya.
My idea of sweet surrender is when you are able to give of yourself... completely, honestly, & wholeheartedly. It feels right and good... natural & comfy.
I don't necessarily require darkness or complete silence / quiet. I do find that it is helpful, for the times my constantly thinking brain is not wanting to co-operate. Hehe.
I can tune things out. Some days, it just takes a bit more effort to do so, but still...
It's the same for me re: including sensations. Gotta love those sensations!
There is a bike trail near me that runs along a huge body of water & a park. I go there often. I'd sit in the sun if I weren't part albino Normally, I sit in the shade by the water after biking the trail & meditate. There are usually many other people about, doing whatever they are doing - fishing, boating, socializing, etc. After a point, though, I feel as if I'm the only one there. I know & am aware that I'm not the only one there, of course - but I think you get the picture, in a meditation sense...
There is another place I often go, away from home where there is a beautiful pond with fish (I feed them) and an old wooden swing... Helps me to see myself from within, if you will......
Nature centers are yet another one of my favorite places to go for meditation. I adore earthy nature aspects......
As you know, I have lots of water in my chart. So, if I have a desire for some inspiration in preparation of meditation - I find that water (sound, smell, feel) does really help to get me "there", very peacefully. Also, I'm a fan of candles, quiet, and darkness ... which puts me in a more calm state, easier to meditate. There are others, as well......
I'm always thinking, thinking, thinking...... some days, certain aspects / ritualistic procedures are extremely helpful for my meditative frame of mind, considering.
I do absolutely agree 100% with your last paragraph & find that to be very true, for me, personally.
RE: Say Something ....... No Need Name Lames
Yikes!