> Rick, thanks for responding. I would welcome an opportunity to bothZen teacher Ellen Birx writes in her book Healing Zen: Awakening to a Life
> discuss this topic more, and to meet people who you feel represent a
> level of realization. My case may be somewhat different from what you
> stated because I myself had experiences of higher states through MMY's
> programs. But my understanding of what those experiences mean has
> changed radically. So for me to meet someone who has a self identity
> as a realized person, or has a deep experiential connection with some
> form of God, might not shift my point of view. I had them too. But,
> for me, that doesn't mean there really is a God. It is just life
> itself that give me the "wow" factor in my life. I don't feel as
> though spiritual experiences or perspectives add much to my life. But
> an opportunity to be shown my own limits of understanding is always
> welcome. I have been wrong so many times in my life that I have
> learned not to bolt any doors that I may have shut!
>
> These days I am more interested in ethics. If a person acts in a
> kind, loving way to others, that is good enough for me. If their
> belief in God helps them act that way, more power to them. I aspire
> to be act kindly. That takes the place of my previous spiritual
> aspirations. And for such a simple goal, it's consistent realization
> is quite a challenge in daily life.
of Wholeness and Compassion While Caring for Yourself and Others (Viking
Compass 2002) "Yamada Roshi spoke of four types of people: an ordinary
person without enlightenment, an ordinary person with enlightenment, a saint
without enlightenment, and a saint with enlightenment. Of course, the fourth
type is what we would all like to be and what the world needs most. However,
what this scheme is pointing out is that personal insight and saintly action
in the world do not necessarily go hand in hand. Insight alone is not
enough. Insight must be coupled with an ongoing effort to actualize in your
actions what you have realized through mediation practice. Insight is
actualized through service." (Page 232- chapter on "SERVICE - Doing What
Needs to Be Done).
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