Meditation is a mind-activity. Everywhere the mind goes, the opportunity for meditation exists. The idea that meditation is something that we only do sitting on a cushion in a particular way or at a particular time has created a lot of confusion. Yet if we can recognize awareness anywhere, anytime, we may ask why we make such a big deal out of meditation, with our cushions and mats and seven-point posture. The answer is that we have developed a very strong identification with our monkey-mind. In order to shift our identity to our natural awareness, we need aids, supports, and methods. We all need these strategies, but don’t confuse them with the true meaning of meditation. We are not training in order to to learn about objects. We are training to learn about our mind, because our mind holds the source of all possibilities — good and bad, happy and sad, sane and neurotic. Freedom exists within our very own heart and mind.

Mingyur Rinpoche

from the book Turning Confusion into Clarity: A Guide to the Foundation Practices of Tibetan Buddhism

Read a random quote or see all quotes by Mingyur Rinpoche.

Further quotes from the book Turning Confusion into Clarity:

• Diligence
• Recognition of subtle shifts in mental behavior
• Befriending the monkey mind
• There is no absolute bad karma
• The real obstacle to resting meditation
• The student’s responsibility
• Becoming the awareness
• The Four Considerations for Choosing a Teacher
• You are discovering yourself
• The mind of letting go
• Rejoicing
• Impermanence
• What creates samsara
• We are born buddhas
• The very first sign of waking up
• Recognition
• Not a substitute for practice
• Turning toward awakening
• Ordinary sangha