Mind is self-luminous

"Mind is not 'a' mind; the mind is empty in essence.  Although empty, everything constantly arises in it . . .  Openness is the first essential quality of mind . . . Mind is not only open - it possesses a second essential quality, which is its clarity.  It is both the lucidity of mind's intelligence and the luminosity of experiences
. . . The open and luminous nature of mind is what we call the 'clear light'; it is an open clarity, self-luminous."

Kalu Rinpoche
Tibetan Buddhist spiritual master
"Luminous Mind"

Photo: Red chokecherry leaves, golden cottonwoods, and Arthur's Rock; Lory State Park, CO; October 16, 2012

Relaxed and loose during meditation, the mind abides, transparent and luminous.

"Sitting comfortably, we let the mind rest in its natural state.  We relax ourselves, our tensions, and remain without strain, without any particular intention, without artifice.  We release our mind and allow it to be open, like space.  Spacious, the mind remains clear and lucid.  Relaxed, loose, the mind abides transparent and luminous."

Kalu Rinpoche
Tibetan Buddhist spiritual teacher
"Luminous Mind"

Photo:  Chokecherry leaves become luminous in last light, with Arthur's Rock in the background; Lory State Park, CO; October 16, 2012