8 Folded Limbs

The first step, or perhaps the beginning of the path concerns understanding.  It is called 'right view' by most sources, but by some--and perhaps more aptly put--Perfect Vision. Most of the resources on the Path describe this first step occurring after or during personal tragedy or extreme loss.  It is in these times of great sorrow that we are open to 'see' the way ahead.  Perfect Vision is not only the opening of the path, but the first in a series of 'steps' of the path.  I do not see it as a 'stairway to Heaven', but more of a pathway to inner peace.  The path-- as I understand it--mirrors and echoes most other faiths insofar as how we relate to the World and how we treat others.

~The way out IS the way through.  Most people struggle--in vain-- to find a bright, cheery window to crawl toward during any period of discomfort.  This window is called Heaven by some-- Nirvana by others, but regardless of title it seems to hold the same reward.  ~In our search to lessen pain and multiply pleasure, we place ourselves in a position between Heaven and Hell.