We may experience a realization of our true Self the first time we meditate, but most often the process of awakening is gradual.
The whole world opens when we accept this moment, this very moment.
I, of course, meditate for two hours every morning. It's part of my schedule; I wake up at 4 a.m. every day and I love it.
The goal actually, is to wake up now.
Awakening is not changing who you are, but discarding who you are not.