joco,
There are various different kinds of meditations. Generally, they are aimed at the same goal of quieting the mind, making you more aware, etc. Thus, I'm sure different people will lead you to different styles and kinds of meditations. This just depends upon who you ask.
The practice of quieting all thought is a fairly difficult one. And yet, at the same time, it's incredibly easy.
Ultimately, you don't need to perform any kind of traditional meditation if you do not want to. Meditation can be easily carried out throughout your day to day life.
Here are some tips for quieting the mind:
1) Practice the art of observing the mind. Don't identify or get engrossed in the thoughts, as this gives them more energy. Just casually observe the thoughts without partaking in any of them. Eventually, they will begin to weaken, and finally, they will stop.
2) DO NOT try to use intense focus to stop the mind. Many beginner's make this mistake. The mind will become quiet when you stop paying attention to it. That's just it's nature. You don't need to kill yourself to quiet your mind, so don't bother trying.
3) Let go of the things and content that are driving the mind. Let go of all sense of personal pride, fear, and desire to think. Let go of any interest or involvement in the content of your mind, REGARDLESS of what that content may be. One thought is just as valueless as any other thought.
The act of quieting the mind isn't as simple as many believe. It tends to be sort of a progressive thing for most people, and may actually take months or years to bear any kind of results. Like many things, it requires patience and perseverance. In other words, don't give up.
If you're looking for more detailed instruction on meditation, Google is a very handy resource.
Alternatively, there is an article on my site that overviews a variety of different types and styles of meditation(see signature).
God Bless,