Expert: Justin Choo - 7/31/2009

Question
QUESTION: I am here in the West (US) and my I wanted to know if we here in the West can get ourselves too caught up in a certain Tradition?  Can we get ourselves lost away from the Buddhas basic teachings?

I hope you understand what I'm trying to say. I know all the different Traditions in Buddhism started in different cultures. I know our culture here in the US is much different here then around the world. I find myself getting lost when I stray out to read some of the different Traditions. The basics in Buddhism make a lot of sense to me. I am not finding it hard to follow. At this point I cannot see a Tradition that fits my life or that I really understand.

Thank You

ANSWER: Hi Ed,

When I started learning Buddhism, I was not aware of the existence of the different traditions; and found myself miserable after realizing that.  All I wanted was to learn the pristine teachings of the Buddha.  I was not interested in the different traditions.  Somehow I managed to persevere and came to understand the historical development of the Buddhist traditions.  It is up to us to follow the traditions that suits us, or even not to follow at all.  The important thing is not to fall into the abyss of the rites and rituals of the tradition.

Hope this helps.

Take care.

Justin Choo

[I like to invite you to visit my blog:]
http://lifeislikethat999.blogspot.com/

[And these sites by Rev. Dhammika:]
http://sdhammika.blogspot.com/
http://www.buddhismatoz.com/


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I know they  say to find a good teacher but for me there is no one around my area. You have been the closest to a teacher I have right now.  
I visit your blog too. Learning more all the time. Is this the only way to keep in contract with you?

Thanks Again,
Ed

Answer
Hi Ed,

Thanks for the ratings.  It gives one, happiness knowing that one's effort is appreciated.

You can post comments in my blog, and return here to ask more questions or just to say "Hi".  In addition, please follow Rev Dhammika's blog.  He is a very learned monk with great sense of humour and the intellectual ability to quote the Tipitakka for all topics.

Another person you can communicate is Bhante Kovida @ buddhadipa@yahoo.ca
He is a Chinese Jamaican monk, very friendly and versatile.  Just mention my name.

Have fun and take care.

Justin Choo