Although many Westerners have accepted the teachings of Ch'an without too much difficulty, they have not fared as well with the practice. Sincere practice, for Americans, is difficult ─ difficult in terms of attitude, environment, and willingness.

In regard to willingness and attitude toward practice, Westerners differ from the Chinese of the T'ang dynasty. The concept of practicing the Tao or Path was already deeply ingrained in the Chinese culture, so the transition to the practice of Ch'an was smooth. Americans are not as fortunate. For the most part, Western culture has not been exposed to the idea of personal practice as a means of discovering and solving the problems of human existence. In Western religions, people rely on the authority of God, or the love of God, to solve their problems.

Americans who practice Ch'an often do not have a clear understanding of what personal practice entails. For instance, the Ch'an idea of sudden enlightenment would attract anyone, but what Westerners must understand is that years, perhaps a lifetime, of practice may be necessary for such an experience to occur. Because the concept of personal practice is not ingrained in Western culture, people in the West appear less willing to commit themselves to the practice of Ch'an.

How much time is needed to devote to practice? It depends on what you want to accomplish. Progress can best be made if a person devotes several years exclusively to Ch'an practice. It would be best to do this while still young because a great deal of energy is required.