Welcome to the discussion Free,
***Pratibha, wouldn't you say that the "fourth state" is not really a "State" at all but rather the ground of being itself? If it was a state, then it would just be another object to pursue.***
Right on! 
Its not a "state" per say. Its not even really "fourth". We must apply these terms owing to the limitations of language. And you are very perseptive to note that it can't be persued. Turya is eternally present and we can only prepare ourselves for its reception, its sudden emergence so to speak.
***It seems to me that the pursuit of all of these states is merely a distraction from what is and only serves to add layers of obscuration to the truth?***
Whether a pursuit is a distraction or an aid really comes down to a person's understanding, what perspective they bring to the pursuit. One cannot cause, force or create Realization, he/she can only prepare. And in preparing, he will have to pursue many things. One of the biggest steps in this "quest" is to stop seeing the world as an obstacle. Anything one does in this world can be used to move closer to the Truth. Furthermore, the only things that really obscure this Truth is wrong thinking and getting attached to these "limited states". But, with that said, yeah-so much is a distraction, its easy to get diverted and lost. . . must always keep priorities straight.
Brian,
You may be looking for Enlightenment but just don't want to admit it. Then again you sincerely may not be. Either way is fine, no problem. With this understanding I am willing to redirect our discussion toward other, more "pragmatic" subjects: health, Ayurveda, sleep. Are you interested, or should we keep riding the Bull? By the way, I would really appreciate your recommendations on some good binaural beat tapes (Hemi-Sync, Holosync...) or something better and newer. Thanks. 
[This message has been edited by Pratibha (edited March 30, 2001).]
