[Buddha-l] Re: **REALLY** Western Buddhism

[curt]

Sam Harris doesn't understand the inherent benefits of "making believe". 
This could be a sign of serious psychological problems - but, 
unfortunately, these kinds of problems are far from rare these days, so 
they have the appearance of normalcy. If one's own mind is plagued with 
darkness and dread, then it is difficult to comprehend how wonderful and 
joyful it can be to simply "believe" what is in the mind. Also - if one 
has difficulty distinguishing "real" reality from the world of the 
imagination - then one will be uncomfortable around people who can - and 
will likely think that they are dangerous hallucinating maniacs. Please 
note that you can only know the difference between these two realms if 
you are pretty familiar with both.

Everyone together now:

I DO believe in Celestial Bodhisattvas!
I DO believe in Celestial Bodhisattvas!
I DO believe in Celestial Bodhisattvas!

- Curt

Joy Vriens wrote:
>> MIKE: 
>> How does having an imaginery friend yield real benefits? 
>>     
>
> Having an imaginary friend and praying can yield real benefits, because they are a first (though unfortunately often also  last) step in the direction of opening up to reality as it is  (at least in the way it affects us directly) by acknowledging things aren't under our control and/or even out of control.
>
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