I understand what you're saying, Jacqueline. What I
was trying to clumsily articulate is that there is a
hidden danger in committing to a particular visible
expression of one's practice. Wearing ceremonial
robes, striking ceremonial bells, chanting sacred
texts, etc. are all praise-worthy activities that help
center one's mind and create the prevailing feeling of
wellbeing and fulfillment. But, this works only if it
is stemming from the inner conviction. And as we all
tend to naturally get lax with our practice, often
times we replace the genuine effort with the outward
manifestation of that effort. In other words, there is
a danger that we may slip into aping the genuine
realization.
That's why I am in favor of doing the inner work first
and foremost. The outward manifestation should be like
a streak of smoke coming out of the chimney. It's not
very spectacular, but still everyone who sees that
smoke knows there is a big cozy fire burning inside
the fireplace.
But in and of itself, outward manifestation of one's
practice is always beautiful and I'm not discouraging
it by any means. I'm just cautious not to let that
beautiful ritual turn stale and get ossified.
Wishing you happy and fulfilling practice,
Alex
--- Jacqueline <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
>
> -Thank you for the reply Alex. The Buddha did wear
> a robe, shaved
> his head, gave up all possesions, and carried a
> begging bowl. His
> followers did the same & along with their outward
> form, they had the
> inner peace.
>
> I think the followers only wished for the way to
> continue, and
> the statues portray this along with honouring the
> Buddha.
>
> The flag was in the mail when I got home today, it
> has guidelines
> as to certain days not to fly it. I understand what
> you are
> explaining, but the need is also for myself. When I
> look at the
> flag it will remind me of the way I am learning.
> Part of the reason
> is also to draw attention to the issue, but this is
> a far better way
> to handle the situation I am in than others.
>
> I did not post all the details, all the people
> involved, all their
> personal views. I didn't ask any other Buddhists
> since the flag
> arrived, but if they do not approve I will listen as
> to why.
>
> Self cultivation takes a long time, and I look
> forward to the
> total distintion to fade away.
>
> I did not disagree with Rod's idea.
>
> Thanks for the luck, best wishes to you !
>
>
> > Buddhist practice boils down to self-cultivation.
> > Forget about others and focus on cultivating your
> own
> > insight. In time, the distinction between the
> outer
> > and the inner world will pale for you and will
> > eventually disappear from your mind. When that
> > happens, you won't be that concerned about your
> > situation.
> >
> > Best of luck!
> >
> > Alex
> >
> > P.S. I honestly loved Rod's suggestion of turning
> the
> > potential confrontation into the 'night on town'
> > bowling rampage. Way to go, Rod! One of the wisest
> > things I've read on this list.
> >
> >
> >
>
>
>
>
No karma was produced during the composition of this letter
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