I have read many books, different views, and different schools of thought. Everything I study now is focused on Japanese and Tibetan Buddhism, which have slightly varied paths, for lack of a better word. When I read and think about each, the Japanese makes more sense and resonates deeper within.
1. Tibetan Buddhism Mahayana – Always working and reaching for enlightenment, as an end-goal of sorts.
2. Japanese Buddhism Soto Zen – You are already enlightened, and the work is becoming more aware of this, and how to exist within this space (or field).
As part of my studies, I have chosen these works:
1. “Cultivating the Empty Field”, The Silent Illumination of Zen Master Hongzhi
2. “The Profound Treasury of the Ocean of Dharma: Volume 1”, The Path of Individual Liberation
3. “The Flower Ornament Scripture: A Translation of the Avatamsaka Sutra”
4. “Visions of Awakening Space and Time: Dogen and the Lotus Sutra”
As I become more aware of this, I will be writing about my understanding and how this pattern of thought/no-thought works for me in my daily life. The empty field has become an important aspect of how I see things, my role individually, and how going within and re-emerging into the world/universe brings forth a more peaceful and calm person.