Chaos is prison.

Freeing the mind for the thoughts we choose through

order is freedom.

Just as an organizational system brings order to a room in disarray, meditative concentration brings order to a mind that is chaotic. While we can tell ourselves that the mind constantly moving is freedom, it is not.

Such a mind is imprisoned.

Those in prison are under the control of others. Told to leave their cells, they leave. Told to stay in their cells, they stay.

A chaotic mind is another form of prison. More subtle. More debilitating.

The chaotic mind cannot go where it chooses. As soon as it tries it is prevented, swept away by different thoughts, including regrets and fears. Even when found, happiness ends all too soon. In the unfocused mind, there is no control, there is no freedom. With the mental order that arises from meditative concentration, the mind can soar wherever it wishes.

Even away from regret and fear.

This truly is freedom.