padma norbu wrote:Yes, I think part of the problem is that I consider all the hours I've spent chanting a particular mantra and think about the fact that (A) I haven't really noticed any improvement in anything as a result, (B) my mind wanders during chanting and so I think I'm not doing it right and wasting my time, (C) think about the fact that Vajrayana methods include specific visualizations and intentions, which of course seem like they would work on your conscious and subconscious mind by undoing deep habitual patterns related to self and others... while Dzogchen methods say not to think about visualization or relative benefit much at all and that this would actually be more a powerful way to practice (I think) unless you don't have that capacity. So... let's say I'm doing Green Tara. What is the point of remaining in rigpa while chanting her mantra? Why not just remain in rigpa and stare at the wall?Virgo wrote: This is not a criticism of you padma norbu, or of any one else. And, I suppose I am guilty of this myself to a degree, but I think we tend to see Buddhist practice as always something separate from normal, everyday moments of consciousness, while eating, fixing a bowl of soup, etc. We tend to think Buddhist practice happens when we are on a cushion doing some particular text and/or when we are faced with a certain decisions which urge us to make a choice between being compassionate or not, lying or not, stealing or not, etc. etc. Those are absolutely times of Buddhist practice (sitting on the cushion and when we are faced with those experiences), they are necessary parts of practice, but anytime, anywhere that there is waking consciousness is a time for us to work with as well. For example, I think it was Sariputra that attained Arhatship lying down to go to sleep.
Kevin
Also, how is there any benefit whatsoever in focusing on twirling mantras, rather than, say, the image of Tara radiating rainbow light all over the place as an extension of her beneficial action? They are both symbolic visualizations, but one is rather meaningless (twirling mantra). It may have secret meaning, but I don't see how that could be revealed by visualizing it for hours upon hours.
You are not improving because you are not willing to let go of worldly attachments. Once you have let go of worldly attachments, you will be full and not lacking.