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Originally Posted by impaul99  But how then does SR have any practical application to our lives before we become enlightened? In your example, it seems like nothing.
I would contest that even at our present moment we are creating everything INCLUDING our EGO self and this perspective we're looking through. So from my perspective I ask (1) Why did I create those people doing those shootings and (2) Why did I create this Perspective/POV/Avatar named Paul experiencing this point of view?
In this way I have the 'power' of a SR perspective right now, in this moment, not in some distant future when I become "enlightened" and become "one with the universe".
That doesn't mean I live my life ONLY from a point of view of SR, but I can use the SR perspective as a tool just as Steve does. |
When you enroll for a degree, it takes four years to graduate. On paper you get your degree on graudation day, but its the fours years that actually makes you a graduate. Its not the day when you become enlightened, but the process of searching and rising above the mind that shows you the ture nature of reality.
Its said in Buddshism that "The cause of suffering is attachment or desire rooted in ignorance". So SR can help you overcome suffering. You will continue with your day to day activities but at the same time you will be aware of the fact that you are not this body.
So you are right, you dont have to wait to be enlightened to use SR. Infact I beleive nobody can just wake up one day and become enlightened. You can continue to use it but at the same time you wont have any worries/fear and other emotions caused by the ego.
"Before enlightenment: chop wood, carry water. After enlightenment: chop wood, carry water."