Expert: Justin Choo - 3/23/2005

Question
Hello, my name is Alejandra and I am doing a research paper on Buddhism and it's followers. I was hoping you wouldnt mind answering a few quick questions for me. Thanks!

~When were you first introduced to the religion?
~How do you feel about Buddhism?
~What is your favorite part of Buddhism?
~Is your family Buddhist?
~What is the most difficult part of practicing Buddhism?
~Do you ever feel that you have been descriminated against for being Buddhist?
~Any additional comments on the subject would be much appreciated!

Thank you so much for your time and I hope to be in touch!

Alejandra

Answer
Hi Alejandra,

Thank you for asking me.

~When were you first introduced to the religion?
I am from a Chinese family, and traditionally we consider ourselves as "Buddhists", although our "religion" is a mixture of Confucianism, Taoism, and other ancient Chinese beliefs.  I was naturally attracted to Buddhism since I was a young student.  I attended a short period of Buddhist Sunday School when I was very young.  Although I did not learn anything much, it served as a good foundation in my quest to learn more, later in life.  I am not the so-called "born again" Buddhist.  My knowledge of Buddhism gradually "grew" with me during the past 20 years.  I read lots of Buddhist books, and I am very fortunate to be able to listen to Budhhist talks by learned monks, especially from one very eminent learned monk.


~How do you feel about Buddhism?

I don't "feel" about Buddhism.  I follow the teachings of the Buddha.


~What is your favorite part of Buddhism?
There is no favourite part of Buddhism.  It is all embracing.  


~Is your family Buddhist?
Yes.


~What is the most difficult part of practicing Buddhism?
Everything is easy with the practice of Buddhism.  Once we understand the teachings of the Buddha, we can practise with ease and happiness.



~Do you ever feel that you have been discriminated against for being Buddhist?
What others think and say are their business.  What I believe and practise are my business.


~Any additional comments on the subject would be much appreciated!
Buddhism is very different from the other religions.  The Buddha taught his followers to use their common sense and human intelligence to analyze life and the world.  The root cause of all our problems lies in our greed, hatred, and delusion.  As Buddhists, we make effort to reduce these 3 evil roots in us, so that we may live a happy and peaceful life, without harming others.

Smile from justinchoo :-)