Expert: Bodhicitta - 10/21/2007

Question
I am new to Buddhism. I have taken some initiations under the Umbrella of
Lama Zopa. I am  Certified and trained as a facilitator of the 5 Tibetan  
and Transformative self healing. I remember some past lives. If there is no
soul --- is this case just a difference in terminology as I was raised in a
Presbyterian tradition. Lately I watch my thoughts and note any self seeking
and when I feel badly or good from thoughts or attachments. I have heard
bits and pieces as I said I am brand new to this philosophy of Buddhism. I
have
Taken Reiki and hypnosis and now graduate as a Medical Intuitive and
Quantum healing.  Here our teacher impresses there is only one of us here.
My question is if there is no soul and life is illusion--- and our beliefs is what
we make up to have some kind of foundation to organize  our creating in
some kind of direction,that Life is sacred , is it we are simply having life
experiences  as we enjoy our own creations and learn how to operate the
body in a masterfully way depemding on the attributes we aspire to??
I have allot of questions actually and it was difficult having just one --LOL
Thanks and God Bless
Sheilagh

Answer
Dear Sheilagh
If you have taken initiation from Lama Zopa this sounds like a potentially serious undertaking and commitment - creating a strong bond
between you and Lama Zopa and his lineage, and creating a strong direction of your orientation on the Buddhist path.

I would suggest you
go back to him or his students and request proper explanation of what you have taken, and proper
training
in his system of meditation, proper background on the meaning of the initiations
and proper explanations.

I usually recommend people take a few years of investigation
and general training in basic buddhism before deciding on
a teacher and receiving their initiation.But it sounds
like you have already taken some strong steps. Am I wrong?

Kind regards

Bodhicitta