Vajrahridaya

Any path that posits a definite source of existence, or a realizable Alpha also posits it's Omega. This is not the same as... ah... I won't say it as it's not established. p.s. as in, it's empty.

I agree, the universe is far more vast and deep than the 5 sense logicians can muster in their loquacious yet sarcastic mutterings. p.s. On the other hand... I do agree with ralis that we should not take life too seriously! But, on the other hand as well... this is a very sensitive topic and shouldn't be swept under the rug so breezily.

I think Osho was a very charismatic writer and leader of people. But, I agree with you 3bob. His quotes though still sometimes hold truth. As one Guru once said, "A true disciple will learn great things from a false guru."

Sometimes people need these paths that are based upon delusion but still emphasis discipline in order to work through some sort of karma? Much like a horse needs blinders in order to stay upon a one way road.

Thanks 3bob! Om! What's that stand for anyway... 3bob that is?

I agree, Falun Gong is a cult and all the teachings are pulled straight out of Buddhist and Taoist teachings which find more clarity in their original context. There are far better books that talk about the Wheel of Karma, the Wheel of Time, the Wheel of Dharma and how that manifests as the microcosm of the individual. There are great works in Vajrayana that talk about the Universal Mandala and the Individual Mandala and how they co-relate. Works on Highest Yoga Tantra (Anuttarayoga Tantra), Works on Mahamudra, works on Secret Mantra and so on. The Generation Stage in Buddhist Tantra Creation and Completion: Essential Points of Tantric Meditation If one wants a really in depth look at the above then: The Treasury of Knowledge There are actually endless books out there that are good and qualified which surpass the Falun Gong black and white extreme and also muddled view. Anyway... just be careful and study deeper is all I'm saying.

Each path defines what the mountain is differently, thus each path actually conquers an entirely different mountain. There are some side effects of this that are the same, such as self confidence, love, virtue... etc. But, there are subtle differences that need to be understood, or not... it's up to you. Everyone's an individual as is everyone's perception of the very same road that another has already been upon is unique. During the stretch of eternal time, we will all have conquered many, many different mountains during one life or another, but which path entirely empties all mountains of inherent existence?

Oh, I floated around the meditation room called "mahashunya" on the bottom of "shree muktanada ashram" in "anugraha" during meditation while a person looked at me with bugged out eyes as I lifted my body to the rooftop. Or rather the energy of kundalini, the light of awareness levitated that possibility through my body. This was about 14 years ago. It was an interesting time in my life of many manifestations of the extra-perceptual, extra-energetic, extra-physical realities occurring through this body. This is probably why I'm considered quite odd in my expressions in a way that challenges the merely 3 dimensionally experienced individuals. p.s. I saw the movie, "Eat, Pray, Love" tonight and really loved it how she came from extra indulgence with contemplation to meditation with contemplation to love through Buddhist contemplation in the movie though it was still highly commercial and not nearly as detailed as the book... according to my wife who read the book.

Oh man! Nothing like that fresh powder on the Fe ski basin. Back when I used to, I would take a toke or two on the ski lift and hit the fresh slopes with my board, back in the early 90's. Soooo much fun!!

Santa Fe or Hunter? I think Santa Fe is better... the foothills of the Rocky's. ♦ Ski Santa Fe is nestled high in the beautiful Sangre de Cristo Mountains just 16 miles from the heart of historic Santa Fe, New Mexico. ♦ With a base area elevation of 10,350 feet, Ski Santa Fe is among the highest ski areas in the continental United States. ♦ Our New Millennium Triple Chairlift will take snow sport enthusiasts to a new height of 12,075 feet and some of the southwest's finest skiing. ♦ The vistas atop Ski Santa Fe are unsurpassed and act as the gateway for thrills including steep bump runs, powder filled chutes, gladed tree-skiing, and plenty of groomers. ♦ Our local patrons and visitors from around the world can all find something for their taste, whether a first time skier/boarder or seasoned veteran, we offer complete services for all level of participants. ♦ Ski Santa Fe is family oriented, but those seeking a challenge can find their place on our mountain. Come join us and enjoy the winter sun. This is more than 3 times higher than Hunter Mountain in NY. Plus it has many more runs... as far as I remember at least.

Ah, makes me miss snowboarding in upstate NY Hunter mountain or Santa Fe ski basin.

Vajra Dance.

Um, I hope not. I have no insights into such things in particular at this time.

Very nice... Yet still they shine for all to see!

I think that this is why it's important to develop insight first. I think this is why most Buddhist Tantra goes from top down. By the way... I love your prison metaphor! Awesome to read!

Excellent observances! Something to definitely keep in mind... Mahro Pranams!

Are you kidding? I've known every lyric to this song for what? 16 years?? HAHA!! I can recite the whole thing on cue! Looooooove this song man. WOW!

Wow, you held onto that anger for that many days straight? Mmmmmkay.

Right, it's the way of things, and being at one with the way of things, one flows with life, and does not resist change and transformation... one enjoys the transience.

Yes see, I can completely agree with that. That perfectly integrates with my own insight, experience and Buddhism. That means liberation is actually possible instead of merely re-absorption.

I actually don't want to argue and wasn't planning on responding. I really just wanted the different views from the different types of Taoists here. I'm done arguing like that... it's pointless in this room. It's better to debate with Buddhists about refining the view within those that already study the path. I'm just curious about the different views here concerning my question, thanks.

Is Taoism Monist? As in, we are all one basic substance, "the Tao"?

I'm definitely on the, "It's awakened" camp. There is a huge difference between the before and after. I think it's different from the energy that just keeps us alive, or a different aspect of that energy.

This is so cool and true, I have been told I have a healing touch... I think we are all given gifts to help others... And that is so true and beautiful to find that out and follow it when you can... they experience healing around you or are uplifted for that time being instead of pressured or stressed out which a lot of light can do for a dark closet that doesn't want to see itself. I have been blessed in the past to come along a car accident or other things, and run and be of support, and help, and send my love a hurt persons. It's funny they always thank you. I always say I get paid for getting this opportunity to help you. Nothing in my life has ever been more rewarding... Melanie Well... I don't know about given gifts. I feel that it's all traced back through past life karma endlessly without a beginning or primal cause, so it's our own potential manifesting due to causes and conditions coming into alignment allowing for the space for this potential to manifest, which is different moment to moment. But, I'm a Buddhist as that's just how we see things. I do understand what you're talking about and we are indeed talking about the exact same experience through different lenses of interpretation. Yes, it is a great blessing!! Stay wonderful Melanie!

The times that happened to me I just went to the E.R. and pleaded indigent. I got all the care I need in order to understand that it was psychological and not physical. Though over time, I'm sure it could become physical if one's psychological state kept putting stress and tension there? Awake, I would recommend pretending that the space of the heart is filled with love, peace, and relaxation and breath contentment into your chest as a practice, even using your hands over your heart. That works for me.