A few Sundays ago I decided to convert my online google-informed education of Buddhism into a more formal experience. I went in for the 'world peace chanting' session at a local center of worship.
It was surreal to feel the peace and love at the center right upon setting foot inside. It was there and it enveloped me immediately. The people were so kind and courteous (almost felt like model-human-behavior) but as I walked further in, the sounds of collective chanting just transported me into such a peaceful and happy place. Childlike happiness. The epitome of zen.
For the uninitiated, Buddhism believes in the inherent goodness of each individual and prescribes a path to channel this 'boddhisatva' spirit. In simplistic terms, good intent and a regular practice can be an effective tool to bring out your gifts. I am in agreement with the basic philosophy- 'as much of the universe is within you as is outside of you'. I followed the basic chants and couldn't believe that zero cynicism surfaced from my mind at the end of 15mins. Here's where I generally start analyzing and creating some thought battles/comparisons etc. Nothing. Shunya. Zero. The musical gongs and the architecture of the center plus hundreds of people chanting together was just a perfect moment.
But humans ruin beautiful things by giving it the color of "practiced religion". Very soon the emphasis shifted from basic B teachings to their sensei's (master/leader) adoration. That's where I lost the plot and switched off. There was a lot of "salse-y" effort to have me join their practice and commit to it which I did not like and which in-fact shut out the magic for me.
I did leave with a wonderful book and turquoise beads and strengthened by the belief that all religions teach the same path of spiritual enlightenment. I do chant when I find time. I've taught my two (soon to be three) year old as well and I love our joint chanting sessions.
I'm further along my path. Everyday brings some new discoveries. The coincidences and mad serendipity have increased many-fold. My universe talks to me everyday and I'm confident some day I will actually be able to listen and understand.
So Buddhism is for my heart. Just not committed to it as a religion today.
'Nam Myo -Ho Renge Kyo'
p.s. Buddha started on his path of enlightenment after witnessing the fragility of life - old age, sickness and death. Nothing's changed so many moons later really.
It was surreal to feel the peace and love at the center right upon setting foot inside. It was there and it enveloped me immediately. The people were so kind and courteous (almost felt like model-human-behavior) but as I walked further in, the sounds of collective chanting just transported me into such a peaceful and happy place. Childlike happiness. The epitome of zen.
For the uninitiated, Buddhism believes in the inherent goodness of each individual and prescribes a path to channel this 'boddhisatva' spirit. In simplistic terms, good intent and a regular practice can be an effective tool to bring out your gifts. I am in agreement with the basic philosophy- 'as much of the universe is within you as is outside of you'. I followed the basic chants and couldn't believe that zero cynicism surfaced from my mind at the end of 15mins. Here's where I generally start analyzing and creating some thought battles/comparisons etc. Nothing. Shunya. Zero. The musical gongs and the architecture of the center plus hundreds of people chanting together was just a perfect moment.
But humans ruin beautiful things by giving it the color of "practiced religion". Very soon the emphasis shifted from basic B teachings to their sensei's (master/leader) adoration. That's where I lost the plot and switched off. There was a lot of "salse-y" effort to have me join their practice and commit to it which I did not like and which in-fact shut out the magic for me.
I did leave with a wonderful book and turquoise beads and strengthened by the belief that all religions teach the same path of spiritual enlightenment. I do chant when I find time. I've taught my two (soon to be three) year old as well and I love our joint chanting sessions.
I'm further along my path. Everyday brings some new discoveries. The coincidences and mad serendipity have increased many-fold. My universe talks to me everyday and I'm confident some day I will actually be able to listen and understand.
So Buddhism is for my heart. Just not committed to it as a religion today.
'Nam Myo -Ho Renge Kyo'
p.s. Buddha started on his path of enlightenment after witnessing the fragility of life - old age, sickness and death. Nothing's changed so many moons later really.
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