Progress (and failings) and the middle way

So my last two posts detailed my lofty goals and how I intend to achieve them. This one (and most of those to follow) will serve as a progress report of sorts and how it relates to the middle way. I'll start by saying I'm still much closer to a life of excess (in all things) than the middle way--and a very VERY long way from anything like self-mortification/denial. I have yet to establish the daily meditation practice previously mentioned (which will be my primary goal between now and next writing). In fact, I've only sat once since then, very briefly (less than 10 min) on Saturday during a visit to my wat or temple. For locals reading, you can find more info (and excellent teachers, in my opinion) at www.watbsd.com--more on this subject to come in a later post. Regarding the precepts; proper speech and refraining from intoxicants seem to be my biggest challenge (as predicted). On the former, mainly idle chatter (sharing opinions etc) and the latter, drinking a couple beers after my return trip from the wat. Now I will say that I kept the drinking to two beers (for a 200lb man), so I was far from intoxicated, but I did imbibe none the less... and my goal is complete abstinence. Now I'm not worked up about any of this, or confessing a guilty conscience... I know this is a process, and mistakes are bound to happen, any such sentiments would be counterproductive... clinging is clinging, same for desire--even if it is for improvement. As such, I am fairly proficient at exercising compassion for myself. That said, I believe documenting such events is an important part of the process and will be a measure of progress as this experiment continues. Obviously the same applies to success or forward movement along the path... which there has been plenty of as well. Simply making it to the wat, being in the presence of monks (or any people who practice) is a major support... so I'll call that a win. Additionally, I've spent a few hours listening to Dhamma talks--namely Ajahn Brahm, if you're unfamiliar there are many on youtube (likely 100+ hrs), and he's often quite enjoyable. My mindfulness is improving... and with it productivity, and peace of mind (spelling intended *grins*). And while I haven't done any formal breath meditation, I have managed a little samatha (or calming/concentration) meditation... another method for stilling the mind, there are various methods, but taking up the mantra "Buddho" is the one I've adopted. I often use it before falling asleep, or when my mind is especially agitated (i.e. angry, bored, restless)... I've been known to use it in conjunction with a mala (Buddhist rosary) as well. If any of this strikes a chord, your feedback is most welcomed. Until next time, major Metta! Upasaka Adam