How can I rely on clarity in the midst of negative thoughts, emotions and experiences?
For many of us, it is most challenging to rely on clarity when there are disturbing thoughts, emotions, sensations, or other experiences. It is important to see that even very disturbing states arise within ever-present clarity. Please acknowledge that the basis of all points of view is clarity. We choose for clarity to be obvious to us or not. Moment-to-moment clarity is the most important choice we will ever make. Practically, this is how it works: When disturbing states arise, rely on a short moment of unending clarity. Over time, by the power of the short moment growing longer, there is instinctive clarity regardless of what type of thought, emotion, sensation or experience arises. Much to our surprise, we find that all of these disturbing states rest in clarity! The Four Mainstays always support us in gaining confidence in clarity while reminding us to be gentle with ourselves.
