But Will My Mind Ever Become Quiet?

Yes! Remember, you are trying to discipline a mind that has been free to roam for a long time. And as you have discovered, it is impossible to shut it off all at once. That’s why you will be focusing on concentration this week. By concentrating the mind, you may still be thinking, but at least you are thinking about only one thing, and it will be you that is directing your mind, not vice versa.

Your muscles respond to regular exercise. In the same way, as you continue your daily meditation practice, your mind will become more disciplined and the number of thoughts you have will diminish. But try not to evaluate how well you are doing; you can be sure that if you are practicing regularly you are making solid progress.

When the mind stops talking,
The heart starts dreaming
And life starts blossoming.
- Sri Chinmoy

If you find it difficult to deal with the flood of thoughts during meditation, you can use some simple imagery. Think of your consciousness as the vast ocean or the limitless sky, and your thoughts are like fish swimming or birds flying by in the distance. The important thing is to feel that the thoughts are insignificant, and that you don’t have to follow them.

So please be patient. With regular practice, you will definitely notice positive changes not only in your meditation, but in your day-to-day life as well.