One sign that your meditation is beginning to be effective is that both subtle thoughts and obvious thoughts become more noticeable than before. This is not a bad sign; it’s a good sign. When water rushes in a strong river current, you don’t see the fish or rocks beneath the rapids. But when the current slows and the water becomes clear, then you can see the fish, the rocks, and everything below the surface distinctly. Similarly, if you never pay attention to your mind, and your thoughts and emotions are uncontrolled, you don’t even know how many thoughts go by. But when your mind becomes more stable and calm, you begin to see your thoughts more clearly. Don’t be discouraged. Take heart at this sign. Don’t hold yourself too loosely or too tightly. Maintain your meditation in the right way without concern and gradually your meditation experience will increase and stabilise.

-- Jigme Phuntsok Rinpoche