The mind is learning to be still

Rather than doing, we are being. And by being, the way is found into the mystery. So, during the times of meditation, prepare to leave all thought behind. It is not a time for thinking at all. We are not thinking about today, yesterday or tomorrow. We are not thinking about ourselves, which is probably what we are all thinking about now. Nor is meditation a time for thinking about God. We leave all thought behind, because thought is an activity of the mind. There are multiple forms of mental activity and none are exempted: thoughts about what we should do or what we would like. Have we sent cards to everyone? Shall I take the car to the carwash? Have I got a big enough turkey? Even the distractions that we might think are rather more edifying, more abstract or religious thoughts, speculative ideas of God, of the Spirit, of my soul, of what Christmas means spiritually. All thoughts must be left behind because the mind is learning to be still —- not doing.

The Selfless Self by Laurence Freeman OSB