HELLO ! (:
just dropping by to share something new (:
I was very impressed with the following news I found on the internet:
From the years 1990 to 2001, Buddhism had grown 170% and transformed itself into the 4th most practiced religion in America
Since the year 2001, Buddhism has experienced an ever greater interest and growth among native born Americans that gives us the impression that the number and percentage of Buddhist adherents must be even larger in 2006 than in 2001. For instance, since 2001, in the State of Connecticut, the appearance of the Buddhist Faith Fellowship and other successful and growing Buddhist congregations have brought about an explosion of Buddhist practitioners in this state. The rapid growth in the Buddhist Faith Fellowship exceeds 1000% since its inception in 2001.
and then there was more :
Buddhism in America is an emergent alternative religion poised to be a spiritual, cultural and political force in the 21st century. The Guide to Buddhist America, published in 1998, lists more than 1,000 Buddhist meditation centers in the United States and Canada
So , I went up and searched more, and then stumbled upon a forum for Buddhist Teens.
Here are some of the threads.
I take the book from the shelf, and looked at it. It seemed alright. I figured that it contained the information that I was looking for. It was titled "Buddhism" and I was given shocked and appalled looks from everyone in general.
"Did you convert?"
"Why? Don't you believe in Jesus?"
So began my journey as a Buddhist. It has been two years since that first day. It was so hard to tear away from the wave of Christianity that stalked me everywhere that I went. Promises of hell were not uncommon. I have come along way from my previous viewpoints. I am now flattered when insulted, I am hurt when I see violence, and I face the Buddha wherever I go. I believe that when insulted, this is the only way that these people feel that they can have dignity and though I disagree with them I suppose that I am happy to be of service. Which is different from my previous view of violence and "An eye for an eye."
Would anyone like to share their experience of first becoming a Buddhist? I look forward to hearing your responses my friends!
Many Blessings!
the replies were :
I had similiar problems getting insulted, told I would go to hell, my search started as many do trying find a religious belief to identify with with my interests in Asia it was only time before I discovered Buddhism. Right away it clicked and I immediately got everything I could about it. I looked book through book started meditating, praying, chanting and I still am.
May Buddha continue to brighten your day!
peace
Dogen
i had a very similar adventure! it was hard at first, i went to a very Christian school that had bible school everyday and it was horrible, people would tell me i was going to hell when i was walking down the halls,so i transfered to public school and it was still hard but its better now!
nameste!
kayti
do join the forum if you'd like to participate in their many interesting topics for Buddhist teens just like us.
(: At the forum you'll find many questions regarding Buddhism, and many personal stories.
& these are the times where we really do thank Buddha for the knowledge he has shared with us.
He isn't God, he isn't an Angel, he isn't a Saint.
but as his famous line answers it all, : I am Awake.
Do be mindful of what you do. Know what you're doing, and always reflect on the 5 Precepts and the Noble 8fold Path when making your decisions (:
Buddhism doesn't require us to spread the Dharma to every living being, but it asks us to spread love (:
It's hard,
but start by complimenting your close friends this week.
try saying nice things to people you come in contact with.
tell them they have nice hair , or just something simple.
because we all need little words like these to bring us through tough days , right?
have a good week! (:
with metta (fuuh, I tau what this means ok?!),
Melinda.
