enlightened

[Guest guest]

I certainly agree with the excerpt below from Digest #745. Very well said.

Thanks to the writer.

Barbara

 

l don't feel that using a method to become

enlightened is ultimately inconsistent with the essence of enlightenment,

altho l would concede an apparent contradiction. lt seems to me that it's

understood that one comes to a point when one realizes that one must go

beyond the method; that the method is more for the purpose of preparation of

the aspirant for that moment -- a moment at which realization or grace or

whatever occurs.

 

 

 

So l think what l'm saying is that the method is both used and abandoned at

the appropriate time. Does the typical seeker begin the journey with all

sorts of misconceptions? Undoubtedly. Do his/her efforts reinforce the sense

of separateness rather than dissolve it? Probably so, along the way, but alot

of good things are happening at the same time -- things such as quieting the

mind, opening the heart, gaining more insight and making the aspirant

receptive to higher truths. And if the commitment is there, with grace,

realization can occur.

 

An approach which emphasizes that

enlightenment is simply a matter of understanding has its downsides too, such

as fostering rationalization, over-intellectualization and mental

masturbation. Of course, no one on this list has succumbed to this, but just

thought l'd point that out! ))

 

 

 

love,

 

jerrysan