August 31, 2009
Q: If someone is determined to reach enlightenment, what is the most essential method he can practice?
A: The most essential method, which includes all other methods, is beholding the mind.
--Bodhidharma
"Affective states arise in dependence on thoughts and sense-perceptions (but especially thoughts), and thoughts and sense-perceptions are like passing clouds."
"Observe the thoughts in the mind,
Observe the patterns of the thoughts
and you will see them disappear.
An untroubled mind simply observe what is
without any afflective emotion"
"People become their own worst enemies when living without awareness."
"Forgetfulness may seem pleasurable, but it will turn to misery."
"A troubled mind is like a bad roof in the rain -
the house it is trying to protect becomes flooded.
Awareness, like a good roof,
protects the home in bad weather
Tormented by thoughts during the day,
flooded by nightmares in the night,
the mind is the cause of great suffering.
Providing silence and calm
the simple practices of meditation and mindfulness
give rise to peace and tranquility."
Feel like it: do. Don't feel like it: don't do.
A: The most essential method, which includes all other methods, is beholding the mind.
--Bodhidharma
"Affective states arise in dependence on thoughts and sense-perceptions (but especially thoughts), and thoughts and sense-perceptions are like passing clouds."
"Observe the thoughts in the mind,
Observe the patterns of the thoughts
and you will see them disappear.
An untroubled mind simply observe what is
without any afflective emotion"
"People become their own worst enemies when living without awareness."
"Forgetfulness may seem pleasurable, but it will turn to misery."
"A troubled mind is like a bad roof in the rain -
the house it is trying to protect becomes flooded.
Awareness, like a good roof,
protects the home in bad weather
Tormented by thoughts during the day,
flooded by nightmares in the night,
the mind is the cause of great suffering.
Providing silence and calm
the simple practices of meditation and mindfulness
give rise to peace and tranquility."
Feel like it: do. Don't feel like it: don't do.
Henry Makow is the author of A Long Way to go for a Date. He received his Ph.D. in English Literature from the University of Toronto. He welcomes your feedback and ideas at