Of course, please note especially the last ingredient, a lifetime of spiritual enlightenment, and the cooking instructions, which required all these ingredients to be mixed by a "strong, feminist hand." The recipe ultimately allows individuals, particularly women, to achieve salvation. If you've read books on Eastern philosophy and religions, you would note that in Japan, the history of Zen Buddhism is inextricably linked also with the eventual "salvation" of women in the society, and I am proud to say that my philosophical writings have helped serve as a catalyst, not only in developing Zen philosophy, but also in promoting women's equality, be this equality socio-political in nature, or in terms of salvation.

Zen philosophy promoted right-mindedness in people because it paved the way for progressive thinking. That is, Zen philosophy opened people's minds that salvation can be achieved not on one philosophy or religion alone, but can be actually achieved through morally excellent lifestyle. Moreover, salvation in Zen philosophy is not exclusive to a particular group or some individuals, but can actually be achieved by anyone, as long as he or she subsists to the right path to living as explicated in Zen philosophy,...

This means that by living in harmony not only with other people, but with nature as well, and subscribing to a virtuous life, one can actually experience enlightenment or "satori."
It is equally important, dear student, to bear in mind that Zen philosophy sought to break the barrier set between men and women when it comes to achieving salvation in Japanese society. Through Zen Buddhism, these barriers gradually disappeared, and salvation no longer became an exclusive right of men; over time, women have come to know that they can achieve salvation too, and can seek and achieve right-mindedness when they want to. They only need to be guided by Zen philosophy to reach this state of right-mindedness or enlightenment, or "satori."

In my next letter, I will tell you more about this critical issue of women subjectivity in Japanese culture and society, and how Zen philosophy played an important role in "emancipating" women from their plight in 10th-11th century Japanese society. This is what I have to say about Zen Buddhism for now, dear student. Do let me know your thoughts about this "short discussion" of ours.

Sincerely, Murasaki Shikibu