Buddhism Curiosity

[Guest JohnV]

I've never held much faith in any religion really. I believe certain parts of many different religions, sort of compiling everything together in my own specific foundation. However, I am very curious about the practices and beliefs of Buddhism and was considering following the faith more religiously. Is Buddhism an openly accepting religion? Would I be able to convert rather easily? I don't have a lot of experience with faith, so any advice or information would be appreciated.

Thank you so much,

JohnV

[Guest Maria_B]

Pre-warned: I'm not buddhist.

Converting to a faith is not like choosing a new favourite top, and you should do some serious research into any writings, books, legends, stories, scriptures or beliefs that a faith has. This will also answer your first question.

I'm sure there are some online archives; many religions, faiths and spiritualities do have online communities that keep them. Do a little prodding around .

Oh, and also, converting is as simple as believing. Formality is non-existent. I've been in a few catholic churches (Though never followed the belief) and they do not ask you ''Have you converted from a previous religion''. If you believe in it, then you're converted.

[Guest]

Hi John,

Buddhism isn't hardly a religion to begin with. Which means that you really don't have to convert.

I know many who still attend other churches at the same time.

Buddhism is a way of life, a practice aimed at achieving harmony, and a spiritual path in that one becomes at peace with death as well.

There are many different forms of Buddhist practice. I am a Zen Buddhist, but also have found merit in Tibetan practices as well.

There is much to choose from, and perhaps a good place to start is with books by the Dalai Lama.

If you would like more information, I will be able to write more tonight...

Love, Megan

[Guest JohnV]

Hi John,

Buddhism isn't hardly a religion to begin with. Which means that you really don't have to convert.

I know many who still attend other churches at the same time.

Buddhism is a way of life, a practice aimed at achieving harmony, and a spiritual path in that one becomes at peace with death as well.

There are many different forms of Buddhist practice. I am a Zen Buddhist, but also have found merit in Tibetan practices as well.

There is much to choose from, and perhaps a good place to start is with books by the Dalai Lama.

If you would like more information, I will be able to write more tonight...

Love, Megan

Thank you, I would love more information. I'm always willing to learn. I'm simply not experienced in any faith, so formalities or non-formalities don't exist to me. My knowledge of each religion is fairly basic, but Buddhism has always captivated me the most.

[Guest Juniper Blue]

I attend a Zen Buddhist Monastery and I am amazed at how completetly at ease I feel in the Buddhist comunity. It is as if my gender and sexual orientaion is a non-issue. I can simply focus on meditation and on my practice.

I hope that you also find a community that is fully affirming.

Best to you,

JB