Expert: Justin Choo - 10/7/2007

Question
Hi Justinchoo,

My name is Gabby and I am a high school student in Massachusetts taking an online course about eastern and western thought. We are currently learning about Buddhism and we have been asked to interview someone well-versed in this religion. I’m wondering what role Buddhism has played in your life and how it has shaped your outlook on certain present day problems facing the world. Also, you mentioned in your expertise the practicality of living as a lay Buddhist; what does this entail? Additionally, I am fascinated by your teaching of parents of Sunday school children in a Thereavada Buddhist Temple, can you elaborate on this? And lastly, what was it like growing up in the 50s as a Theravada Buddhist? It seems that you have a very fulfilling, rich life with many experiences; I am looking forward to hearing more about them. Thank you very much.

-Gabby


Answer
Hi Gabby,

Thanks for asking me.

I have always been very interested to learn more about Buddhism.  Although born as a "Buddhist", it was just a lable.  I made effort to study the teachings of the Buddha since I was a teenager, and later was fortunate to learn more from knowledgeable speakers and learned monks.

The teachings of the Buddha are about seeing the true nature of this existence and the universe.  Once understood, despite all the troubles and problems of this world, the person can sail through the rough waters of life.  There are many things in this world that are natural and cannot be changed.  Realizing this and by accepting this truth, one's persception of life becomes more accommodating, thus reducing the heartaches and agonies when faced with life's calamities.  I teach the parents an introductary course on Buddhism in 14 lessons which will provide them with a good knowledge of what the Buddha taught.  

Most probably you are assuming that I am in the U.S. I am in an Asian country, as such growing up as a Buddhist was just normal.  As for my life, I would say that any person past 50 would have a "wealth" of life's experiences, both good and bad.  I am just the average "John Smith"!

Smile from justinchoo :-)