We Really Do Need To Train Our Mind … First!

If we don’t train our mind to be still and silent, it will lack the clarity needed to recognise and realise the truth of the teachings. With training, we experience and gain inspiration and then, subtle questions arise from realisation. Teachings are generalised, and theory is black and white, static and fossilising; it is only through authentic experience that genuine questions arise. If we cannot form a precise question, we will not receive a precise answer.

Reading about, discussing and studying the reality of the nature of mind will not help in realising and experiencing this. We need to still the mind into silence by focusing our attention and inner energies, otherwise the nature of mind will remain merely as a theory. In training the mind, we also have to refine our conduct to be more attentive to others’ needs, and gain what is called ‘merit’ – the beneficial qualities of receptivity, a peaceful atmosphere, good fortune, good karma – which brings a greater potential to receive and synthesise teachings.

In training the mind, we do not become carried away by our ideas and emotions. In other words, we apply discipline so that we don’t revert to our habitual mannerisms.

We have to return to basic mind training constantly, and take a low profile in life. If we become competitive, we will remain trapped in a samsaric frame of mind – and we will only be competing with stupidity. If we don’t train our mind to receive wisdom, then we are of no use to ourself or anyone else.

Training is simply valuing compassion that arises from pure awareness. There are no hardships and it’s not complicated. They don’t tell you that, do they? ;D