Journey Within: Unveiling the Clarity of Mind through Meditation
This month we are exploring the wisdom of Nyoshul Khen Rinpoche and Sogyal Rinpoche in The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying and in it we found a captivating perspective on the nature of the mind. Nyoshul Khen Rinpoche beautifully articulates the essence: "Profound and tranquil, free from complexity, Uncompounded luminous clarity..." — a description of a mind beyond the intricacies of conceptual thought. It's an invitation to perceive our true nature, a pristine clarity unblemished by the complexities of ordinary thinking.
Sogyal Rinpoche, in his analogy of the sky and clouds, paints a vivid image of our true nature akin to the vast sky and the ordinary mind as transient clouds. From the ground, clouds may seem to obscure the entirety of existence. Yet, with a shift in perspective, soaring above the clouds, one discovers an expansive, clear blue sky. The analogy underscores the potential for clarity and expansiveness that lies beyond the veil of mundane thoughts.
Taking cues from these teachings, meditation emerges as a transformative tool. Deepak Chopra's insight emphasizes its significance: "Meditation is a vital way to purify and quiet the mind, thus rejuvenating the body." It hints at the potential of meditation to bring tranquility to the mind and, consequently, harmony to the body.
The Bhagavad Gita's timeless wisdom echoes this sentiment: "When meditation is mastered, the mind is unwavering like the flame of a candle in a windless place." Mastery over meditation promises a steadfast mind, undisturbed by the gusts of distraction and external chaos.
In a world inundated with noise and constant activity, the proposition of turning inward through meditation becomes increasingly appealing. It's an intentional pause amid life's tumult, an exploration of the depths of self beyond the surface-level preoccupations. Through meditation, there exists the potential to unearth the 'nothingness of peace' — a serene state where the true self, unencumbered by the noise of the world, can be revealed.
In the pursuit of self-discovery, meditation beckons as a pathway to explore the vast landscapes of the mind. It is an experiential journey, an inward odyssey to uncover the clarity, tranquility, and unwavering nature described by the sages.
As we navigate the complexity of everyday life, thru the business of work and Netflix binging, perhaps taking a contemplative break to meditate is not just a suggestion but a profound invitation to witness the boundless expanse of our true selves.
We'll keep on trying this meditation thing and report back to you.
- Cue The Humans