What we are talking about are basic functions of consciousness:
Awareness: Broad spatial perception
Attention: Focused specific perception
Mindfulness: Recognized continuity
Visualization: Non-physical imagery
For example, once you have learned how to ride a bicycle, you no longer need to think about how to do it. Similarly, it does not require thought to observe or to concentrate. However, after learning to ride the bicycle, the body does the work of riding while the mind immediately wanders away, to daydream. Just so, when meditating, once the attention is placed in concentration, the mind will wander away to daydream, to think, to remember. Therefore, what we seek is to retain mindfulness of what we are doing. Not thinking, not analyzing, but simply being present and aware. So, "ride your bicycle," let your body do what it needs to without thinking "I am pedaling, I am steering."
This non-thinking mindfulness is the entry way to awakening consciousness.
“Nothing is easier than self-deceit. For what each man wishes, that he also believes.” —Demosthenes
"Do not worry; cultivate the habit of being happy." —Samael Aun Weor