Strive to detect thoughts 

the instant they arise, 

before speaking or acting.

Our thoughts occur with incredible speed and utmost subtlety, not to mention in staggering numbers. At first, they seem to amble through one after another. Peering more closely, we notice that they’re not merely scooting through in single file. No! They’re more like thousands of first-graders in an auditorium jostling and shouting “Me! Me!” 

Just like their dazed teacher turning to the loudest student, we also go with the most noticeable thought. Without thinking, we act on it and sow a karmic seed. At the same time, our other thoughts plant future seeds. Incredibly slight, but seeds nonetheless. Our thoughts, undetectable by us, are vibrations. As such, they will have consequences. 

Just as that teacher might calm her students by having them focus, at least momentarily, on their favorite ice cream, we too can gain control over our actions and results by focusing on “Amituofo.” 

Hopefully, all the time.