This is a long post by my standards.
I was asked in an email “Why Twisted Buddha?” I’m mildly surprised it took this long.
Firstly, let’s get Buddhism on track. Buddhism is based on the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama who lived in the Northeast region of India. The “religion” is a family of beliefs and practices, not unlike the origins of Christianity. A true Buddhist takes refuge in The Three Jewels which are: Buddha (the awakened one), dharma (the teachings of the awakened one) and Sangha (the community of Buddhists).
So, where do I fall into all of this?
Buddhism as a whole tends to be much more accepting of other religions and beliefs. That is, live and let live. In this regard, I am a true participant. Each of our religions is very personal whether conducted in a group (church, synagogue, etc) or it is an individual pursuit, much like me. Even within a sect, individuals have different understandings of the teachings of the elders.
I do meditate and this is not unique to Buddhism. To bring the understanding closer to those around me, prayer in Christianity is a form of meditation. Quite simply, it is a connection with the higher being or energy. My true goal is seeking enlightenment which simply means understanding the “self”.
So where does the twist happen?
I understand the world I live in. It is driven by economy, greed and the wanting of things. I am subject to those cravings as are most of you. I also have an intrinsic belief that there is a better way. Somewhere there is a world (society?) where we have all our basic needs and lack the struggle required to attain those things (food, water, shelter, companionship and, yes sex).
True freedom is derived from not being concerned about surviving and an enlightened society is one that leaves no one wanting.
I know what my Utopia looks like and it has some semblance of the society we live in. It may seem semi-socialist (or full blown socialist to someone far enough to the right) but I am all about equality as opposed “dog eat dog”. I am a capitalist beyond the primary needs of the individual and the community.
I am also a Christian. I suppose I could have called myself a Twisted Christian though I tend to lean further toward Eastern Philosophy more often than not. I am also not a pure Buddhist nor am I striving toward that end. I pull my inspiration (beliefs?) from many different religions including Buddhism, Christianity, Neo-Paganism, New Age “Religion” and others.
Though my beliefs don’t always align with any particular religious group, I am, for the most part, Eastern in philosophy. That is, my thinking of how society and community are conducted and the interactions between people are aligned more with Buddhist teachings than they are of others. At the same time, the teachings of Jesus, Mohammad and Buddha are strikingly similar when read in their truest form.
Therefore, I am a moderate Buddhist with a twist. I live in a modern day society and I have the “cravings” of that society. However, my beliefs around how one conducts them self within that society are rooted in the East.
And no, I have no intent toward converting any of you. I’m uncertain as to what I would be converting you to. Also, converting insinuates that where you are now or what you believe isn’t good enough. I don’t have that thought process in my belief system. What you believe is personal to you and that’s fine with me. It’s much more important to me that we live in symbiosis rather than from where each of you derives your belief.
Finally, I am not a monastic. I am a highly sexual being and have little inclination to hide away from society (though not always the case). At the same time, I am private and generally keep my beliefs to myself. Attempting to make clear to others my beliefs is not always easy and I find others immediately attempt to convince me that their way is better. It’s not. It’s just different.
And, quite honestly, I am a bit “twisted” anyway.
Does that answer the question?
I can’t put into words right now how impressed and happy I am to see this blog!
I look forward to reading!!
Cindi~
Things are a bit different around here, Cindi. I tend to be a bit more outspoken about different issues. I’m afraid it’s only going to get worse.
Glad to see you here, Hon.