Meditation is familiarisation.

[Tarka the Duck]

To tell someone that they need to clear there mind of all thoughts is kind of like telling someone they need to be happy.

Which particular method of meditation are you referring to here when you talk about a requirement to "clear the mind of all thoughts"? Yes, some traditions do have practices of blocking thoughts, in order to have one's mind and body "as still and immoveable as a mountain". That has a purpose in cultivating clarity.

But that type of meditation is not what the OP is about. it's about the recognition of the awareness of those thoughts.

Studies do reveal that Transcendental Medititation is THE most benifical form of meditation.

I'm obviously not aware of how wide your experience of meditation is, but to claim that one form or another is "THE most beneficial form" seems utterly pointless
It's rather like stating that a cheese sandwich is better than a ham sandwich...

Each has its purpose: meditation is a tool, and all methods are available for the individual to use as required.

Kathie