You cannot think yourself calm
Our Minds Never Stop
Recent studies show that we have around 6,200 distinct thoughts per day, while older research puts the number closer to 50,000–70,000—depending, of course, on what we define as a “thought.” Whatever the measure, one thing is certain: our minds are constantly in motion, endlessly conjuring images, plans, memories, and worries.
It’s also understood that most of these thoughts are repetitive, with 80–90% belonging to what I call the “spin cycle.” Even more sobering, about 60% of our daily thoughts lean toward the negative—fueling emotions, reactions, and attachments that can cloud our peace.
But we can’t simply “turn off” the mind. It doesn’t work that way. God gave us this incredible instrument to think, reason, strategize, and communicate. Yet, as I’ve learned from some of the world’s greatest spiritual teachers, our thoughts are not who we are. They’re just streams of information, constantly running in the background of our consciousness. Beneath that chatter, there is something deeper—the still presence of our true self, the observer behind it all.
When I quiet myself with God, I try to become aware of my thoughts without judgment. Sometimes I even laugh at them: “Well, that’s an interesting one,” or “Wow, you’ve got quite the imagination today.” My mind is like an old friend who never stops talking—I’ve just learned to tune out most of what he says, knowing that 90% of it is harmless noise.
If you want to experience this same sense of separation between being and thought, try this simple practice:
Be still. Feel your feet on the ground. Notice the pressure points where your body meets the chair. Focus your attention on your breath, and be exactly where you are. You’ll notice your mind wants to wander—to tomorrow’s plans or yesterday’s regrets. When it does, gently remind yourself, “I am not there. I am here.”
The spiritual teacher Mooji often says, “Your thoughts are clouds passing, but you are the sky.” Thoughts move. You do not.
Be satisfied with where you are—for that is where God is. He knows the power and potential of our minds, including their capacity to create fear. But no amount of thinking will ever lead you to peace. You cannot think yourself calm.
Calmness comes only through presence.
So, my brothers and sisters, remember: you can’t stop thinking, but you can choose not to absorb. Witness your thoughts, let them drift by, and rest in the stillness of God’s presence.
Be simple. Be plain. Just be.
“Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?”
— Matthew 6:27 (NIV)
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Quiet my restless mind and still my spirit in Your presence. Teach me to see my thoughts as passing clouds and to rest in the peace that only You provide. When worry and fear arise, remind me that You are the unshakable sky behind it all. Help me to dwell in the present moment, to trust Your plan, and to find calm in simply being with You.
Amen.
