Culadasa July 2018 Patreon Q&A

Timestamps: 00:11 How do I know when my ego structure is healthy enough that I can go for insight without worry? 15:36 Obstacles to the spread of the Dharma? Supernatural aspects, dogma, redefinitions and reinterpretation of attainments (experiences x states x traits), secularization and the supermundane. 31:22 Addictive behaviours, 12 step programs and surrendering to a higher power. Is this possible in the context of Buddhism? Taking refuge in the Buddha, Dharma and Sangha. 35:31 Can an adept meditator influence the collective unconscious (and thus, the world itself) very strongly through the use of repeatedly sustained intention? 42:13 Different stream entry pathways (Progress of Insight stages, Pure Consciousness Experience (PCE) and gradual lesser awakenings). Value of repeating fruitions. What approaches would make further fruitions more likely? 53:44 Could you please say a little more about gross distractions in Stage 4 as opposed to Stage 2, and telling the difference? 57:55 Use of an electronic reminder for a brief time, in conjunction with intention, in Stage Three, as a reminder to check in every five or six breaths. 59:25 Distinctions between Naturalist, Pragmatic and Secular Dharma/Buddhism. Anatta, reincarnation, rebirth, karma. 1:18:00 [Follow-up question] Clarification on experiencing past lives, non-duality. 1:24:59 Fire Kasina practice. Roles of positive psychology, body awareness. 1:33:58 Can you talk about intention and holding intentions? How does one develop a sensitivity and ability to be mindful of intentions and to evoke them like we do with loving kindness in metta? Buy Culadasa's books on Amazon: amazon.com/author/culadasa Follow Culadasa on Facebook: www.facebook.com/Culadasa.John.Yates Much more at: culadasa.com/