This talk compares and contrasts the teaching of the direct path (as found in Zen and other traditions) and the progressive path as found in both religious mindfulness practice and secular mindfulness. The progressive path is characterised as the realisation of truth through gradual stages culminating in the wisdom that sees the truth of impermanence, suffering and the absence of any substantial self. It is taught as a set of factors or skills that we practice to attain either realisation or well-being. In contrast, the direct path points directly to reality or ordinary mind – which is always already and here and now. Rather than training all that is required is recognition – this indeed unfolds gradually but is realisable right now.
