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The immediate preparation is that condition of mind which is right to enter into the state of concentration, namely the desire for the development of the character and the improvement of the conduct. But this is too general an object; it is too diffuse, so we must specialise.
We may want to develop benevolence, for instance. The immediate preparation would be that state of mind which would take up the thought of benevolence at once. It is a wrong time to sit down to concentrate on developing benevolence just after having had thoughts of revenge. The mind is in a state where concentration on benevolence would be impossible. A good way is, when calm, to make a plan that at such a time you will concentrate on benevolence. Ardour, enthusiasm, fervour, sincerity, etc. should be created in the heart at the time of concentration or when planning for it.
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