[asSexate]

I love this question! I pretty much rejected this concept initially as wishful thinking akin to thinking that "believing in Jesus" will result in heaven and not believing will result in hell. I read Jamgon Kongtrul's Treasury of Knowledge , Book 1 on various perspectives on Buddhist cosmology last spring. A lot of meant virtually nothing to me but a few things I picked up there have totally altered my perception of reality and I am really grateful. Specifically, when he describes how the pure realms are formed out of the interaction of the compassion/wisdom of Buddhas and the karma of sentient beings. Getting a glimpse into the process of their formation in relation to cause & effect took them out of the realm of wishful thinking for me and they now seem a viable opportunity. The idea that interactions between Buddhas and sentient beings can possibly create an entire physical universe, is really mind blowing! It is no wonder then, that is really difficult to believe.

[Putting on my mad scientist hat] If it is possible that when Buddhas and sentient beings hook up in the right way, an entire universe is created that is so incredibly good, that it is almost impossible to believe. What does that say about the opportunity to meet accomplished masters in the flesh who certainly embody Buddha-like qualities? WOW