The teaching monk demonstrated that our minds in normal conditions are initially clear like water in a container. However, throughout the day, we encounter various matters, both concerning ourselves and others, as if we were putting dirt into the water. When the water is dirty, our options for using it become limited. If it’s clean, we can drink it, wash our faces, bathe, clean things, tidy up the house, water plants, etc.
We can see that the dirtier the water, the fewer options we have. We might be able to water plants, but we can’t drink, wash our faces, or bathe. If it’s filthy, even watering plants may not be possible, and we may have to discard it altogether. Therefore, training the mind to be clear is crucial; it enables us to have constructive thoughts and see possibilities.
As for the method of cleansing the mind, it’s not about pushing thoughts or what’s in the mind away. Rather, it’s about letting things settle naturally by calmly focusing on our inner peace. Eventually, the dirt will settle, leaving only a clear mind like the clear water on top.
