Reactions Lessen When We Watch the Flow of the Mind

Carefully observing our own mind is a foundation of practice. We need to be able to notice what thoughts are arising now and where those thoughts are flowing, so that we can care for the mind.

Thoughts move without stopping. The problem is not that thoughts arise at all, but that we immediately react to them, make decisions from them, and turn them into words and actions.

When we watch thoughts just as they are, a small space opens in between. With that space, we can stop a hurried reaction and look again at where our words and actions are heading.

Happiness and unhappiness are also deeply connected with the flow of the mind. If we do not notice our thoughts, we are carried along by habit. But if we watch with awareness, we can make a different choice even in the same situation.

Today, may we observe the flow of the mind just as it is, and live an aware day by pausing once before reacting.