Great post Bastian
As I was reading through this thread one thing kept popping into my mind... which I think the person's HS in that story you posted was getting at.
When we meditate, and this is the best way I can think to explain it from my own experiences... you can say there are two parts to the mind..
There is one part that observes thoughts and there is another part that chooses to get involved in them.
When you go into meditation, try focussing your attention in your brow chakra region about an inch and a half inside your head between your brows. As if you (your consciousness) are focussed in that point. The seat of the soul.
You will see thoughts come up one after the other, just observe them and let them pass. Don't use the part of your mind that becomes involved in those thoughts. In other words don't follow through with the thoughts that come up.
For eg: if you have a thought like "oh I have dishes in the sink that need doing".... to get involved in those thoughts will possibly lead you to thinking about other chores around the house that need doing, and then feelings will come with it, perhaps stressful ones at knowing you still have boring household chores to do. Hence meditation will not come.
When thoughts pop up, take a step back in your mind and just observe them, then let them go. Each time a new thought pops up, recognise it as your restless mind trying to stay restless (because that is what it is used to, and doesn't like change
) and bring your attention back to that part of your mind as the observer of thought. With practice, the restless part of your mind will "take the hint" so to speak that this is quiet time, and less and less thoughts will throw themselves up to try and grab your attention.
I feel like I have to add though that in my experience, this quiet period doesn't need to be held for too long. It is just enough to acheive it for a few minutes, or even a few seconds once you are used to it.
It is like.... a transitional period, like a switching off from mundance material mind, over to spiritual mind. Concentration and visualisation follow this "switching over" of consciousness. And as some have already shared, the visions which follow can provide us with incredible insight and growth within ourselves.
In all things however it is up to the individual to determine what is right or wrong for him/herself, and whatever works for you is what is right for you. It is great to have a place like this to share individual experiences. As each person can provide insight for another, a new approach or a new idea/method to try. It's wonderful
There are many paths to the one. And i wish you all many blessings and much happiness on your journey.
There are no limits on love or acheivement....