It is always our own embrace we are seeking, never anything else. And the silence of the mind cannot be striven for any more than the silence of a disturbed baby can be.

It is never the mother who removes the child’s distress, it is not possible, it’s not within her capability. The mother can only reassure the child that there’s no more danger here and offer her loving presence. The baby soothes itself, they stop crying by themselves.

It cannot be forced. In fact, it is the opposite. The more you try to force it, the more disturbed the child will become! Scream at the child to calm down, and they will start crying like never before!

Similarly, love to yourself cannot be forced. It is a gentle process, it takes time and patience. Awareness is the mother, and the mind is a crying child.

Learning how little control we have over the internal experiences of our children is one of the most profound learnings in life. It’s part of becoming a parent.

Learning how little control you have over your own internal experience is the most profound learning on the spiritual path. Without it, the depths of love will forever remain hidden.