Reflection Part 7
October 19, 2025
Reflection Part 7
There is a Zen proverb from ancient Chinese wisdom: “You cannot see your reflection in running water, only in still water.”
Once again, nature becomes a metaphor for life itself. When water is disturbed, it cannot reflect. In the same way, when the mind is unsettled, it cannot reflect.
I reflect more honestly and clearly when I am not distracted or preoccupied. Yet stillness does not come automatically. It is cultivated through practice and intention.
If we extend the water metaphor further, the clearer the water, the more perfectly it reflects. The same is true for us: the clearer the mind, the deeper the reflection. And when we speak of “mind,” it is not only the mind of the head, but also the minds of the heart and the body.
The most extraordinary capacity for reflection comes when all three intelligence centers are clear and still. This is why, before meditation, we begin by relaxing the body, becoming aware of the light and warmth in the heart, and calming the head center. Some practices even invite us to hold a gentle smile.
Preparing for reflection is much like preparing for meditation. We seek stillness—an unhurried, untroubled calm. We release worry, hurry, and tension. We let the surface and undercurrents of consciousness settle until we are alert yet tranquil, present, and serene.
Stillness can be found anywhere, though a peaceful environment helps. Even amid outer chaos, we can be calm if we cultivate inner stillness. Thich Nhat Hanh illustrated this beautifully during a large group meditation when a baby began crying. The cries broke through the silence, and people turned to look. The mother was embarrassed, but Thich Nhat Hanh gently taught, “The baby’s cries are part of life itself. Her cries are welcome here because all of life is welcome.” And with that, the group returned to meditation.
The same is true for our lives. Outer disturbances such as a missed bus, a lost ticket, a failed exam, or a disagreement, need not destroy our calm. When absorbed into our peace, they become part of stillness. To reflect deeply, we must nurture body, mind, and heart peace throughout the day so that every glitch is absorbed into inner serenity.
“Be still and know that I am God.”
Spiritual practice: Close your eyes, take a deep breath through your left nostril, and exhale through your right. Do this ten times. Then, scan your body for tension or discomfort. Tighten those areas, then release them, one by one. Does your body tell you it is relaxed and still?
Now, bring your awareness to the light and love in your heart. Picture that light enveloping your heart. You may feel it as presence, touch, embrace, voice, or even fragrance. Rest in the stillness of your heart’s mind.
Next, mentally release your worries and concerns. Feel yourself calm, aware, and centered. From this place of stillness, reflect on someone or something that calls to you now.
Self-inquiry: Why do I long for stillness, yet spend so little time in it?
Prayer: Oh God, for stillness I pray, because in stillness I will know You. Amen.
