My own path...
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Location: "I'm not lost for I know where I am. But however, where I am may be lost ..."
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Originally Posted by vinyl
Did I suggest consuming alcohol was unknown, or the future was unknown?
Originally Posted by vinyl
However I do not have a big plan to never drink again, as I do not feel I have control over what has yet to pass.
Originally Posted by ReadyAndAble
less likely that I'll ever marry Winona Ryder

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However, it works for you, and that's awesome! I have found that I simply don't need that mantra in my life whatsoever, so I fall out of both camps I suppose. It's unnecessary for me. For me, not drinking right now gives me cause to celebrate my sobriety every passing moment without having to add anything extra to it, like a promises to myself regarding the future of drinking.
Please don't confuse this with intention. I don't intend to drink. The difference is impermanence and the idea that one has control over the future. I personally do not. Clearly some of you have a deep enough understanding that finality over what is to come is something you have clear control. That is just not my understanding nor experience.
For many, like yourself, the statement I will never drink again is just fine to use, but it's not for me. This I assume is the fundamental difference in our practice and though it may seem like a minute one, I think it's an important discussion. I'm glad you guys have been a part of it. I'm learning a lot.

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Hey readyandable, I didn't even realize I used the word platitude. Very sorry for that, poor choice of words on my part. I'm glad what you're doing is working for you. It's inspiring and I wish you continued success with it, sincerely.
I think most of what we are all saying so far is very close.
I think most of what we are all saying so far is very close.
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Originally Posted by vinyl
As already pointed out, some have zero difficulty stating they will never drink again. However those are the very fortunate few I suppose.
Originally Posted by vinyl
There is another large segment of people struggling with alcohol that find the finality of the statement to cause anxiety and undue pressure which many unlike yourself end up drinking again due to losing the battle against it.
Hmm. Much to think on, heh heh.
Thanks.
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And let's not get into who's path has been around longer, I think I'd win that one.

Not sure how you are missing this and why we must belabor this simple difference, but it's ok, I will continue to discuss it over and over if you would like me to. But anyway, all my best to you and your path. I'm sincerely happy it works for you. Hopefully at some point you'll agree to disagree and not misunderstand what I'm saying or continue to take what I say out of context. Either way, be well.

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Originally Posted by vinyl
And let's not get into who's path has been around longer, I think I'd win that one. Addiction to alcohol is a symptom of a much deeper samsara. I won't go in depth here, but living in the present moment and the Dharma has been around and practiced by quite a few more than those who just practice the phrase, I will never drink again. You'll just have to trust me and the centuries old teachings of Buddhism I guess.
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Not true at all, soberlicious, I welcome all thoughts and your contrary ideas. I was more frustrated with myself for not being able to clarify my thoughts for you to understand. I never intended for you to think I was upset in anyway by your disagreement. I don't get frustrated very easily these days. My concern was I wasn't being clear and you and I were going in circles.
Either way, it's all good.
And be contrary all you want! I welcome the learning experience.
Either way, it's all good.

And be contrary all you want! I welcome the learning experience.
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Originally Posted by vinyl
I was more frustrated with myself for not being able to clarify my thoughts for you to understand.

namaste bruthah
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Hey guys, So I've been able to help a few folks who PM'd me find a zen center in their area but a few others lived in remote areas or were otherwise unable to attend a center nearby.
For those folks and anyone else who can not make it to a center, I wanted to suggest an online center that holds zazen online. I think it's a great way to get comfortable with the practice first before committing and also a decent primer to the practice. However, there IS NO substitute to finding a real center and sitting with real people and discussing your practice with a Roshi (teacher).
With that said, drop by, check it out and join one of their sessions online: Treeleaf | Treeleaf Zendo, A Soto Zen Buddhist Sangha | Treeleaf
Be well. In gassho. _/\_
For those folks and anyone else who can not make it to a center, I wanted to suggest an online center that holds zazen online. I think it's a great way to get comfortable with the practice first before committing and also a decent primer to the practice. However, there IS NO substitute to finding a real center and sitting with real people and discussing your practice with a Roshi (teacher).
With that said, drop by, check it out and join one of their sessions online: Treeleaf | Treeleaf Zendo, A Soto Zen Buddhist Sangha | Treeleaf
Be well. In gassho. _/\_
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