Novice Monk: Master, people often say that by calming the mind and meditating, one can experience true joy. But what exactly is this feeling?
Master: The joy that comes with quiet meditation is like a flash of lightning in a dark, stormy night.
Novice Monk: I don’t quite understand. What do you mean?
Master: When you allow the weight of your worries to loosen, you create space for fresh air to enter. It’s like clearing the path for a new breath.
Novice Monk: I see, but how do we truly calm the mind?
Master: Haha… To calm the mind is to release the clutches of sorrow and desire, to let go of attachments to the fleeting moments around you. In that stillness, joy naturally appears. It’s like this stream flowing peacefully—this is the essence of meditation. Meditation isn’t about force or control—it’s about letting go and being present. In the quiet stillness, the joy that already exists within us reveals itself.
Meditation is a process of training the mind. It is not about clearing the mind entirely, but rather about observing thoughts without judgment. In a world full of distractions, where our attention is constantly pulled in multiple directions, it can be incredibly difficult to sit in silence and focus inwardly. It encourages us to let go of the noise—both external and internal—and to simply be. By focusing on the breath, sensations in the body, or a mantra, anchor ourselves in the present moment, allowing thoughts to come and go without attachment. Despite its challenges, the rewards of meditation are immense.The quiet path to joy isn’t about searching far and wide—it’s about turning inward, finding stillness, and allowing the peace within to unfold. Over time, with consistent practice, meditation can lead to: calmness, emotional balance, self-awareness, and joy.
Have you ever tried meditating? How did it feel? I hope you were able to experience the peace that comes with it.
