19. A distracted mind can be concentrated, and a confused mind can be set
in order; but oblivion is unformed darkness, in contrast to distraction, which
still has some direction.
20. Oblivion means the lower soul is in complete control, whereas the lower
soul is a lingering presence in distraction. Oblivion is ruled by pure
darkness and negativity.
21. When you are sitting quietly, if you become drowsy, this is oblivion.
Repelling oblivion is simply a matter of tuning the breath„ The "breath" in
this case is respiration, not the "true breathing" Nevertheless the true
breathing is present within it.
22. Whenever you sit, you should quiet your mind and unify your energy.
How is the mind quieted? The mechanism is in the breathing, but the mind
alone knows you are breathing out and in; do not let the ears hear. When
you don't hear it, the breathing is fine; and when breathing is fine, the mind
is clear. If you can hear it, the breathing is rough, which means the mind is
cloudy. Cloudiness means oblivion, so it is natural to feel sleepy. Even so,
the mind should be kept on the breathing.
23. It is also essential to understand that this device is not mechanical or
forced. Just maintain a subtle looking and listening.
24. What is "looking"? It is the light of the eyes spontaneously shining, the
eyes only looking inward and not outward. Not looking outward yet being
