(Had frequent electricity cuts here as well as a power-spike-induced computer crash, hence my delay in responding)
David S: I'm not sure I totally understand your initial comment about expecting a response from me, reference to CMR, etc. (Hopefully it was meant kindly. *s*)
I didn't respond at the time simply because I prefer to leave questions about the subtleties of the practice to a qualified NSR teacher (you) to answer. I feel more comfortable speaking as a meditator who has had some experience along the way and worked closely with TM teachers in the past. When it comes to the nitty-gritty of how to handle the practice of NSR itself, then I try not to step outside my boundaries.
Incidentally, my response to the original post would have been very close to yours, and suggesting to not mind where the syllable locates itself, or whether it even locates itself anywhere. Just follow the manual.
I'd like to throw in my two-bits worth on the matter of 'controlling'. I think one should be mindful that "trying" not to control is in itself a form of control. I liked the earlier post along the lines of having the 'intention' before starting NSR to not control anything during the process, once begun. But once one is in the NSR practice, I would say: one should just let things take their course and not bother about 'not' controlling. Just follow the NSR instructions.
Gavin, Long-term TM meditator
Cape Town