If views of delusion and awakening are done away with and interpretations of turning toward and turning away are cut off, then this mind is as lucid and clear as the bright sun and this nature is vast and open as empty space.

Right where the person stands, s/he emits light and moves the earth, shining throughout the ten directions. Those who see this light fully realize the absolute truth that all things are unborn. When you arrive at such a time, naturally you are in tacit accord with this mind and this nature.

-Ta-hui (1089-1163)

Over the years I have come to appreciate the impact of the here and now experiences my clients have when we are in session. The conversations are typically about what has happened in their life or what they fear will happen in the days to come. Over the course of time a unique relationship develops between us, and I become aware of the patterns of turning away and turning towards the assumptions that inhibit or compel my client’s efforts to deepen their understanding of themselves. When we shift our focus to the patterns and what is being felt in the moment, the opportunity arises to fully realize that all things are unborn, which refers to the eternal essence of life that transcends birth and death. It’s a realization that connects us to the light that shines in all directions. 

 Search out the point

where your thoughts

arise and disappear.

See where a thought

arises and vanishes.

Keep this point in mind

and try to break right through it.

Take up this awareness

as if holding a sharp sword in your hand.

-Han Shan (1545-1623)

Holding the sharp sword of wisdom, Manjushri demonstrates the process of cutting through our assumptions and beliefs that prevent us from exploring our thoughts and feelings. Our world is in a continuous state of evolving, the changes are subtle, like water dripping on stone and it is easy to form conclusions about ourselves and others. We desire a predictable world, and traumatic events can be devastating to our clearly defined reality. The process of searching for that point where thoughts arise and disappear is a fundamental part of therapy and psychoanalysis. We become aware of the subtle and nuanced changes that can deepen our self-awareness, work through traumatic experiences,  and revise our conclusions.