Jack Kornfield – Ep. 60 – Vastness and Love

Quieting Mind

Jack Kornfield emphasizes the importance of quieting the mind to access deeper wisdom and clarity. He explains that this process is not about exerting effort but rather stepping outside of our busy identities to connect with our hearts. Kornfield shares a story about the Buddha to illustrate the concept of being "awake," highlighting that true awareness transcends labels and identities 1.

To walk in the mountains, to sit quietly, to fill our bird feeder or walk the dog or play with the child, or just sit quietly to listen to a piece of music, and mostly just to stop and listen to your own heart, to have a conversation with your heart in some way, and to find your way to quiet your mind.

--- Jack Kornfield

This quieting of the mind allows us to see clearly and access our "wisdom body," which Kornfield describes as loving awareness 2.

   

Simplicity & Wisdom

Kornfield explores the idea that simplicity and detachment from material distractions lead to wisdom and clarity. He shares the practice of chanting a single syllable, "Ah," as a way to collect energy and let go, emphasizing the beauty of both harmony and silence 3. This simplicity, he argues, is crucial for inner development, as it allows us to step out of our small selves and connect with a larger sense of being.

Enlightenment, wrote one master, is an accident, though certain efforts make you accident prone.

--- Jack Kornfield

Kornfield stresses that true wisdom arises from listening to our conscience and recognizing our interdependence with life, which is essential for addressing the challenges of modern society 4.