Clean Mirror. . .

“Did I really just say that?” You feel your heart start to race, and you’re plunged into a loop of negative thoughts. One leads to another and it begins – “Did that make me look stupid?” “Was that feedback too harsh?”

When we feel embarrassed or misunderstood, it can be easy to slip into a cycle of self-criticism. Buddhism teaches us, however, that we have the ability to overcome this cycle when we see ourselves clearly as Buddhas.

Research has found that this repetitive thought cycle can perpetuate negative moods and in more serious cases has been linked to some forms of depression. When we get stuck in a vicious cycle of self-criticism, we are essentially viewing ourselves through a distorted lens. A mind now clouded by the illusions of the innate darkness of life is like a tarnished mirror, but when polished, it is sure to become like a clear mirror, reflecting the essential nature of phenomena and the true aspect of reality.

The more we continuously polish our lives, the more we can see ourselves through a bright shining mirror. The key to breaking free from rumination is to get some distance and question our thoughts. Ask yourself: “Is this the kind of thinking that is promoting taking action, or is it the kind of thinking that is making me feel worse about myself and questioning my ability to bring about change?”

With a clear mirror, you might actually believe more and doubt less No matter the circumstance, a clear mirror helps us see and believe in the innate value of our life—our natural talents and abilities.