This mind of wisdom transcends space and time. It does not exist in a specific point in space; it exists in every location of space. It does not exist only in this moment in time; it exists through all of time. There are no limits or boundaries. Everyone, whether or not they have karmic affinity with the mind mirror, will be reflected in this mind. The only difference is that those who have karmic affinity will recognize that they are being reflected, whereas those who do not have this affinity will not recognize it. This is an important point: Everything, whether karmic affinity is present or not, is reflected in the mirror of the enlightened mind. Those with karmic affinity see their reflection. In other words, these people face the mirror with eyes open. Those without it have their backs turned to the mirror. They are being reflected, but they do not know it; and if they turn and face the mirror, their vision is obstructed. However, all sentient beings are reflected. They cannot be separate and apart from the mind mirror.

A disciple once asked me, "What's the purpose of reaching Buddhahood? There are already innumerable Buddhas, yet we haven't been delivered from Samsara."

I said, "The problem is not with the Buddha. Buddha offers help. We just don't recognize it. If we haven't been delivered yet, it's our problem."

The stronger your affinity with the mind mirror, the more clearly you will see your reflection. Those with a weak affinity may not recognize what they see. Nevertheless, whether the interaction is direct or indirect, clear or clouded, all who see a reflection benefit from Buddhadharma.

Participants on retreats may be able to concentrate their minds to a focused point, and they may even be able to enter elementary levels of samadhi, but it is not the same as seeing one's self-nature. Nevertheless, such beginning experiences are important and beneficial. They are the basis for good practice. Eventually, it will lead to experiencing one's self-nature or entering deep levels of samadhi.