Below is a link to a 15-minute video by Eckhart Tolle entitled The False
I and the Real I. I've read a few things from Tolle but have never seen
a video by him before. I would describe him as the the Mr. Rogers of
New-Age Spiritualism. If I remember correctly Bonnie, one of our new
member, speaks highly of Tolle.
It was interesting to me because he stated the ego is only the ego if
you're unaware of it, and as soon as you become aware of it it's not the
ego anymore. That corresponds somewhat to zen in that the self is only
problematic when you think it's real and are not aware that it is an
illusion. He also goes on to say that just recognizing the ego doesn't
solve all your problems. He says that there is a kind of momentum built
up that you just can't stop immediately. I think what he calls
'momentum' could be the same as what Buddhism and zen (as I understand
it) calls 'attachment'.
Anyway all this is similar to the experiencing Buddha Nature and
realizing the self is an illusion. That experience doesn't mean you do
not have any more work left to do to continue to weaken and finally
dissolve the attachment you have to this illusory self - even after you
recognize that it is illusory.
Also, you might also see how the same or very similar teachings of zen
are presented in a more modern dialog.
If you'd like to see this video, and I recommend it, you can find it on
YouTube at: The False I and the Real I
<http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GEed09SJ_R0&feature=youtu.be> .
Enjoy! ...Bill!
