Reflection on 7-day Silent Illumination Retreat Part 3

In one of my sitting practices during the retreat, I realized that I am the “present”. This not only means "now" but also signifies a gift. The Chan Master mentioned that there’s no such thing as the present moment. In reality, there is no time at all. Time is a measurement that humans invented. The body is the only existence of the present. Living in the present essentially means aligning the mind and body. That’s why we often use the sensations of the body as an anchor for meditation practice.

The mind is a useful tool for human beings to navigate this physical world. We humans love to uncover the rules of the world (science) or create rules that make us feel comfortable and safe. The mind is capable of planning, preparing, predicting, regretting, and responding to all situations. Past and future are just ideas. Time is not a physical entity; it’s an illusion. The future is constantly unfolding in the present, while the past is merely memories. The mind can collect memories and recall them when necessary. It can also create memories based on existing ones—predicting, imagining, and fabricating scenarios about what might happen. However, these mental activities often lead to worry and fear, resulting in overthinking.

In my meditation practice, I sit, rest, and relax, realizing that there is no past or future for the mind to dwell on. Past and future are just concepts. The mind stays here with the body, not actively seeking sensations. I simply remain aware of whatever arises naturally. Everything is vibration and frequency (色声香味触法), perceived through our senses: eyes, ears, nose, tongue, touch, etc.

As long as you are aware that your body is sitting here, you are in the present moment.

That’s all for today’s sharing. To be continued.

Best wishes,

Janice L.