Meditation is NOT about Controlling Your Thoughts

Last week at the Melbourne University Buddhist Society, a student shared that she found meditation difficult because she thought it meant controlling her thoughts.

In fact, this is a very common misunderstanding—I once thought the same before I truly learned how to meditate.

But I told her that meditation is not about controlling your thoughts—it is about awareness.

You simply recognise that many thoughts are arising, without needing to suppress or fight them.

Sometimes, the more you try to control your thoughts, the stronger and more numerous they become.

It’s like trying to control a mischievous child—the more you control, the more rebellious they become.

Meditation is about maintaining awareness and mindfulness.

Knowing thoughts are present, but not being carried away by them.

So how do we avoid being carried away?

The key is to give the mind an anchor.

For example—Amitabha.

Gently place your mind on the Name. When thoughts arise, do not resist them and do not follow them.

Simply return, again and again, to the Name.

With continued practice, whenever the mind wanders, bringing up the Name will guide it back.

Resting in the present, you will no longer be easily carried away by thoughts.

So true meditation is not about control, but about awareness—with a place for the mind to rest.

The Name Amitabha represents our inherent nature—Infinite Light and Infinite Life.

What could be more calming than resting the mind in this sacred Name?

The next time you feel restless or overwhelmed by thoughts, try reciting:

Amituofo… Amituofo… Amituofo…

As the ancient masters said:

“When a pure pearl is placed in muddy water, the water cannot remain impure.”

Gradually, your mind will become clearer, and the light of your true nature will begin to shine.

May you often recite Namo Amitabha