TOMAS: 10-29-98.Pgh Part 3

[ZooidODell at aol.com]

(Continued)

ELYSSIA:	  Do I understand it correctly when I think that they seem to
meditate a lot more than we do and they spend a lot more time in stillness in
general than --perhaps I shouldn't say that about my friends here; I should
say that about myself!

TOMAS: It is not so, although the tradition is set forth, but think of how
Buddhists might behold Christians!  They might think of you in terms of how
your tradition would have you look also.  If you are known throughout the
world as the kind of mortal who will "turn the other cheek" then you might
appear somewhat vulnerable to attack and if your God was crucified, you may be
regarded as somewhat foolish for worshipping a mere mortal. 

These kind of value judgments or observations are made through ignorance
because of the lesson above.  It is hearsay.  It is dogma.  It is a history
lesson until such time as you feelingly experience it for yourself.  Remember
that in many of the countries where Buddhism is practiced there is a caste
system and it is often a luxury to be able to worship and perhaps only the
wealthy can afford to sit in stillness.  On the other hand, there are those
who may be so hungry and amid such squalor that they can only find peace
through stillness.  Each individual is a record unto him or herself.  

It is not a good idea to classify a large sector of believes as manifesting a
blanket truth for in EACH individual there will be shades of coloration based
upon the individual's personal experience and much of this has to do with the
ability of its indwelling Adjuster to make impressions upon its superconscious
mind that will lead to increased enlightenment.

ELYSSIA:  In the Book it says that ... I think it says ... better not ... on
THIS planet, meditate for more than 20 minutes at a time.  Has that changed,
Tomas?

TOMAS:  I am not familiar with a legislation as to worship.  It is certainly
not to be encouraged as a method of escape from the rigors of living, but
genuine pray-ers are also eager to follow up and be of service.  It is not a
good idea to fast and to go without spirit food, nor is it wise to become a
glutton, but a real relationship with Our Father will enable you to maintain a
sense of balance in your practice.  Many times in your culture in this day and
age, if you can secure 20 minutes it is an accomplishment, not to be disdained
if you can find half an hour!

I have a sense, Elyssia, that you are attempting to understand and convey
something in extension of an appreciation for the Buddhist philosophy.  (To be
continued)

There are many religions that practice meditation and forms of prayer.  It
does not make them a spiritual people.  Even those who sit in stillness for
hours may be only cogitating their grocery list.  "By their fruits they shall
be known."