Reading all the responses, I dont think anyone here has grasp the true meaning of Buhdisim. A true Buhdist practices to be freed of material possession in this world. They practice to accept life as it comes. Not worrying about what happens next, or what happens if or where their next meal will come from. A true Buhdist accepts what ever happens, happens. They dont fight it get angry or moan or worry about it. I will be the first one to admit it. As much as I would like to be a Buhdist, I am too materialistic to be one. I worry about where my next meal is coming from or how i will pay for my mortgage. The majority of the Buhdist i encounter at the temple are hypocrites. they pray to Buhda for things for health, for material gains. that is so ironic to see it is actually funny. Buhda himself does not want your offerings, he would rather see you use that money to help one that is less fortunate then yourself. QUOTE=mobidoo;692717]Yeah visiting India takes alot alot of patience, if you know what I mean Be prepared to be rip off, grope and what not. Some friends of mine recalled some horrendous experience. Nepal is really nice. Been there before for treking. The town centres are slightly on the dodgey siide, but well, I guess we just take it in your stride if you need to go places like this Having said that, I met some of the most wonderful people in Nepal espeically up in the mountains where the teahouses are. Its an incredible experience. Back to the topic. I don't really trust any buddhist courses that comes with a hefty price tag. If it includes your air ticket etc, then perhaps it make sense. But for a 6 weeks crash course to learn buddhism .... mediation even.. golly... Its such a tourist package don't you think ? But who knows, I can't comment because if the teacher is really good, then it might work and prove itself to be beneficial. Okay check out this website. It gives you a breakdown of some of the sacred "mountains" in china where some of the most enlighten monks once made their practice. http://www.sacredsites.com/asia/china/sacred_mountains.html Putuoshan is just one of them cos its near to Shanghai where I would be visting. But I would love to go to Jiu Hua Shan actually. Most of the places now are highly commercialise. Unless you know someone who is familiar with the temples about, you be visting temples after temples. You can't really get a taste of the spirit of the place. I don't knowwhere you are located and I am curious, or are you chinese even with an okay command of Mandarin ? I can point you to some website if you are keen to further your explore Buddhism further There are alot of traditions and many sects of Buddhism, and I can assure you all is good and equal. I think the leanings towards any schools of buddhism will largely depends on your inherited karma. And if you have are keen that would only mean that you have open up the doors of a way to liberate yourself from the wheels of samsara. Buddhist call those who are show interest are the ones with "good roots". Nurture it and I am sure you will find delight and joy. The topics that Buddhism covers are pretty cynical at face value and to some, pretty morbid even. But once you have a taste, of the peace within and a taste of it and begin your journey to pry the doors slowly open of your wisdom gate, the joy you will experience is beyond words. So yes please, let me know what you are keen in exploring. If I am of any help, I will be most glad. [/QUOTE]
I kinda agree with what you said there ..lol .. after all, we are typical humans; not monks or whatever .. lol .. still in the learning process about the religion. Like you said, we have everyday life to worry about.
