Awareness is the starting point from "summary" of Being Zen by Ezra Bayda
In our journey towards understanding Zen, we must first come to realize that awareness is where it all begins. This awareness is not merely a mental concept or intellectual understanding; it is a deeply felt presence that permeates every aspect of our being. It is the foundation upon which all other aspects of Zen practice are built. Being truly aware means being fully present in each moment, without judgment or expectation. It means being open and receptive to whatever arises, whether it be pleasant or unpleasant. This kind of awareness allows us to see things as they truly are, without the distortions of our conditioning or the projections of our mind. When we cultivate this kind of awareness, we begin to see the interconnectedness of all things. ...
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