Pure Mountain Tao

When the mind becomes concentrated, we can then eliminate the extraneous habitual thought patterns. As they begin to subside (as a result of the persistent practice of one-pointed meditation), the mind can then be not only concentrated, but also more thoroughly one with the object of meditation. It is a sort of inner expansion of attention on the object of meditation. The mind becomes like a piece of fine crystal.

When the mind is like a crystal, it possesses no coloring of its own. It is clear and pure. This means that when you place your attention on some object, your mind is able to fill with total concentration of that object, i.e. become one with it. Shaping the mind into a form like a crystal does not mean we are enlightened, but it does allow the mind to become the lantern that shines brightly into the deepest recesses of the mind.

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Sunlight and shadows

Playing checkers on the floor

Lazy Tuesday afternoon