Big mind, little mind

"It is the mind that makes one wise or ignorant, bound or emancipated."

-- Sri Ramakrishna

Zen distinguishes big mind from small mind. Big mind identifies with its process, is impersonal and participates universally. Big mind is unlimited possibilities, deeper understanding, forgiveness, acceptance, insight, connectedness, attention.

Small mind is self centred and focuses only on itself. It is compulsive, limited, reactive and mechanical. Small mind feeds on itself -- fear reacts to fear, judgment reacts to judgment, anger sparks more anger.

Always seek higher perspectives and you will in time find freedom.

"If a pickpocket meets a Holy Man, he will see only his pockets."

-- Hari Dass

"Minds are like parachutes; they work best when open."

-- Lord Thomas Dewar