Thread: How did your purpose for lucid dreaming evolve?

I remember a friend in high school describing a WILD technique and all the adventures he had. I thought it incredible and slightly unbelievable. A year or two later I got interested in Buddhism and discovered the dream yoga tradition. About 10 years later I found ETWOLD. I decided to undertake it as an experiment and mostly for fun, but with a leaning towards spiritual practice.

Hearing and reflecting on may Buddhist wisdom traditions that describe all experience to be dreamlike further inspired me. Particularly I was inspired by the teachings on the Buddhist view of "emptiness", especially those of Khenpo Tsultrim Gyamtso as recorded in his fabulous book "The Sun of Wisdom", and those I have heard in person from him. He describes the subjective experience of emptiness many times as being almost identical to the experience of lucidity. Knowing that all that is currently experienced is mere appearance, a mental fabrication, and having the confidence, joy, and relaxation that comes from that knowledge. Thinking about this intensively led me to greater diligence with my practice.

Further, I think the dream environment provides a powerful setting for developing positive qualities such as love, wisdom, and compassion for other beings. I want to take advantage of this, to make use of this time which is otherwise just a waste.

Also, just the little time I have spent exploring the dream environment has been so rewarding, fascinating and completely amazing! I just want to keep exploring!