Expert: Justin Choo - 2/26/2008

Question
Hi, i am a high school student in MA and for a online course i am taking, we had to ask a few questions to a practicing Buddhist. I was just wondering if you could possibly answer these questions for me!

Have you always been a Buddhist? If not, did you have a serious life-altering event that changed your beliefs? What brought you to practice Buddhism?

What are the major beliefs of Theravada tradition? Is this the tradition most Buddhists follow?

How has being a Buddhist changed the way in which you go about your daily life?


Thank you so much!

Answer
Hi Michaela,

Thank you for asking me.

<<Have you always been a Buddhist? If not, did you have a serious life-altering event that changed your beliefs? What brought you to practice Buddhism?>>

I was born a Buddhist, but I self-studied Buddhism and learned from monks and other teachers to know in greater depth.


<<What are the major beliefs of Theravada tradition? Is this the tradition most Buddhists follow?>>

The fundamental teachings of the Buddha are similar for the different traditions.  They are the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path.  Theravada emphasizes on self development.  Mahayana and Tibetan Buddhism emphasize on service and compassion.  Theravada is one of the 3 main traditions.  


<<How has being a Buddhist changed the way in which you go about your daily life?>>

It helps me to understand the true nature of life and the universe.  It helps me to respect others' beliefs and to be more tolerant with those who do not agree with me.  It helps me to want to reduce negative traits such as greed and hatred.

The challenge is to change oneself to be less greedy, less hateful, and to be mindful to improve one's spiritual life towards living in peace with oneself and with others.

Smile from justinchoo :-)