Who's in charge?

Have you ever tried to watch your mind, and make it do what you want it to do? I have, and it is a tough job. When I'm not paying attention to my mind and what it is doing, I can suffer the illusion that I am in control in the house of my mind.

Not so. At least, not for long, and not easily. I think I need a lot more mind training! I wonder about you.

The reading today from chapter 3 of the Dhammapada is about this daunting task, and has motivating and helpful thoughts about making the effort.

As an archer aims an arrow, the wise aim their restless thoughts, hard to aim, hard to restrain.

Those who can direct their thoughts, which are unsubstantial and wander so aimlessly, are freed from illusion and bondage to suffering.

As a fish hooked and left on the sand thrashes about in agony, the mind being trained in meditation

thrashes about.

Hard it is to train the mind, which goes where it likes and does what it wants.

But a trained mind brings health and happiness.

The wise can direct their thoughts, however subtle and elusive, wherever they choose.

Thus they enjoy health and happiness.

They are not wise whose thoughts are not steady and minds not serene,

who do not know the wise way of living in harmony with the law of life.

They are wise whose thoughts are steady and minds serene,

undisturbed by what seems good and bad.

They are awake and free from fear.

More than those who hate you,

more than all your enemies,

an undisciplined mind does greater harm.

More than your mother, more than your father, more than all your family,

a well disciplined mind does greater good.

Remember, this body is like a fragile clay pot.

Make your mind a fortress and conquer illusion and selfish desires

with the weapon of wisdom.

Remember that the body will someday lie in the earth without life.

My response:

Let me grow in my ability to steer my mind along the path of wisdom, serenity, and detachment.

Let me remember every day what a gift it is to be human and alive on this beautiful earth.

Let me make the most of this precious life that has been given to me.