Expert: Justin Choo - 5/20/2011

Question
Dear mr choo,
I'm 17 and for all of those years I've been raised a christian however after studying quite a bit of philosophy (several months or so) I came across some texts on the beliefs of Buddhism, I was enthralled,especially in therevedas Buddhism,  it felt like I was seeing a religion succeed in carrying out a goal so many others fail at, creating a better world and achieving happiness using your own mind to overcome suffering and needless desire. I reallywanted to be a part of this flexible and moderate religion but I had one problem I still believed in god, I read that buddhists do not believe in a one creator god because they are based in fear (which to me made sense as I know people increase in "faith" during crises a lot) but is it right to believe if your belief is NOT rooted  in fear?
Im completely new to Buddhism so my "cup is empty" so to speak but Im prepared to fill it as soon as possible please answer my question with utmost haste and thank you for your time and knowledge
Sincerely Seth

Answer
Hi Seth,

Not many 17 year olds are like you.  They would prefer enjoying themselves in the latest high tech gadgets and having a good time.  By this alone, you are in this rare category of those who seek a better meaning in life.  

Unfortunately no, your "cup is not empty".  Your cup is over-flowing with indoctrinated ideas of fear and blind faith.  This means you need to slowly empty the cup and slowly fill it with ideas of confidence and reason.  This will need some time.  So please take it easy.  The first step you need to do is to study more on what Buddhism is all about.  With ample knowledge of what the Buddha taught, you will slowly but surely be able to discard your indoctrinated ideas, and replace them with reason and wisdom.  

From your description, you have already acquired a good grip on the fundamentals of Buddhism.  What you need now is to study more and bit by bit all your doubts and fear will disappear. May I recommend a few sites for you to start with?  If you have any doubt or question later on, please come back and I shall try my best to explain.

Please have a look at the following sites:

http://www.buddhanet.net (The “mother” of all Buddhist web sites)

http://www.dhammaloka.org.au/
This site is in Western Australia where Ajahn Brahmawamso resides. He is an English monk and is a very popular speaker. You can listen to his talk through this site.


http://www.buddhanet.net/pdf_file/whatbelieve.pdf
"What Buddhist Believe" by Ven. K Sri Dhammananda. This book explains the Buddhist perspective on life's general questions.
Venerable K. Sri Dhammananda was my revered teacher. His writings have benefitted countless people throughout the world. He had recently passed away (18 Mar 1919 -- 31 Aug 2006)


I hope this helps.

Remember, you are always welcome to ask me anytime.

Justin Choo