Quantum Mind

In quantum theory, a particle does not really exist as a tiny bit of matter located somewhere but rather as a cloud of probabilities. If observed, it collapses into the state through which it was observed. Each time a quantum wave function collapses this way in the brain, it gives rise to a moment of conscious experience. Or so one theory goes.

It is quite amazing how Buddha just sat and settled his mind, discovering the the quantum field of awareness. If we only understood this one little aspect of Dharma, our life would be more peaceful and intentional. Peaceful because we know all possibilities exist in every moment—we would be less bothered about our reactions to events. Intentional because we always have the option of expressing loving kindness toward others. Of course, we can also express hatred. It all depends on what we hold in our mind.

The mind is the creator of our world. In the first stanza of the Dhammapada, Buddha says, “Mind precedes its objects. They are mind-governed and mind-made.” In quantum language we might say, “What we see as form is the collapsing of the unformed ground of awareness into a perceived reality.” We must become aware of the space in which our awareness arises and the intention through which our reality appears.

This is why we begin all our practices by generating bodhicitta, the mind-heart connection. If we do not mingle our thoughts with bodhicitta, our thoughts will be governed by an accumulation of other habits. It is not enough to simply settle the mind, we need to mingle that settling with the habit of compassion. I notice many people practice meditation without changing the habits through which they practice. Our ego-mind loves spiritual practice as long as nothing changes. 

If we practice allowing the mind to ‘collapse’ into our natural bodhicitta, all possibilities are possible and kindness becomes the reality. Maybe that’s why we call it ‘falling’ in love.