Which Way? One or Many?

Instead of reading Vanity Fair (the 19th c. book, not the magazine), I have been diverted once again into non-fiction. Rather than Toddler Tips (although there is some of that too on the bedside table), I'm digging into Thich Nhat Hanh's Living Buddha, Living Christ. The concept and practice of "mindfulness" is useful in so many areas of my life, and this book seems to be a good springboard/inspiration for developing more of a focus there. What really piques my curiosity here, is his more universalist view of spirituality. There are many Christians who are also practicing Buddhists, as Buddhism (as I understand it) is more of a philosophy/practice than theologically based and so not necessarily incompatible with practicing Christianity. But, his quotation of the second precept of the Order of Interbeing does raise questions about the absolute truth of Christianity:

"Do not think the knowledge you presently possess is changeless, absolute truth. Avoid being narrow-minded and bound to present views. Learn and practice nonattachment from views in order to be open to receive others' viewpoints."

Now this is horribly out of context, and also framed by the Introduction by Elaine Pagels, where she (problematically) draws parallels with Hanh's views and [dang--went to publish and Blogger failed me--and it was so Deep too!].... the gnostic gospels where Jesus is allegedly pointing to multiple ways to the Man (vs. John 14:6 which says "the only way to the Father is through me"--and so One Way). Now the quote is addressing attitude and receptivity and perhaps is not incompatible with believing in a doctrine of Absolute Truth that is Christianity--perhaps it is possible to also be nonattached enough in order to be receptive to interfaith dialogue? Hanh's writing has many subtleties. He is insightful about many aspects of Christ-following and practicing mindfulness for right-living. I am finding this book useful and am slowly becoming re-energized for the continuing road of "preparing myself" on many different levels. [that's close to what I was trying to say--a lot of stuff to unpack here.]