Transition Point

I have noticed that one of the biggest challenges to stick with meditation practice is "tangible results." When I practice yoga, or run, build something, paint, or work in the garden; I have a tangible immediate result. Meditation however is different. Although I feel relaxed, awake, calm and more present, which are tangible; the deeper aspects of meditation are not necessarily perceptible on a daily basis. One day I simply notice something new, different, a deeper calm, sense of compassion, intuitive awareness that was not there the previous day. The never knowing when signs will appear or manifest is a challenge to practice; I sometimes wonder, am I really "progressing," am I doing anything of value sitting and meditating? Of course I could have a long philosophical discussion with myself or others about the "doing!" I thought I would share this experience and find out what your thoughts are about the benefits of meditation and the challenge of tangible results in our culture.