There is no difference between thought and emotion – in the same way as there is no difference between a breeze and a gale. With the first there is simply the movement of mind – and with the second there is simply the movement of air. In that respect, emotions are gusts of wind – or waves on the sea.
Both the gusting of the wind and the billowing of the sea begin with a simple shift in time and space. There is a single thought to which self-referential consequence is attributed – and this leads to more of the same. This tends to generate squalls, storms, gales, and hurricanes.
Emotional embroilment is the result of ocean of Mind failing to self-recognise – and understand its waves to be its fundamental nature. There is no relaxation in this – and neither is there the opportunity to make creative use of the energy that prevents relaxation.
Posted by Ngak'chang Rinpoche and Khandro Déchen to sangha on Telegram, 18th April 2020