1.56
"Bhikkhus, whatever qualities are unwholesome, associated with unwholesomeness, and aligned with the unwholesome, all of them are preceded by the mind. The mind arises first for those qualities, and then unwholesome qualities follow."
1.57
"Bhikkhus, whatever qualities are wholesome, associated with wholesomeness, and aligned with the wholesome, all of them are preceded by the mind. The mind arises first for those qualities, and then wholesome qualities follow."
Observing for the presence and absence of the wholesome and unwholesome mental qualities is then a great way to observe for the trajectory of the mind itself.
Being able to correctly observe for the qualities provides for an opportunity to apply the right teachings. This is where a teacher, or having friends who are practitioners can help.
The gradual training guidelines when practiced in form the support that allows for correct observation to take place by oneself.
Related Teachings:
Steadying the mind against the poisons of greed, hate and delusion (AN 4.117) - The Buddha's teachings when practiced become a support for the mind, allowing it to remain steady in situations that once used to shake it up.
A teaching on four fundamental questions | Ummaggasutta (AN 4.186) - The first question relates to this teaching.
An ordinary person might become free of attachment to body, but not mind (SN 12.61) - The Buddha is sharing here that it's difficult for an ordinary person to not to be attached to the mind, even if they're able to see the body (form) as not-self due to its aging and impermanent nature. This underlying tendency to have affinity, attachment, relishing in the mind is one that has lead to the continuing of the transmigration.
