Master of Buddhism Course

This is a blog for the course comments from the Master of Buddhism course through the Universal Life Church Seminary.
The course can be found at Buddhism Course.

Thursday, February 24, 2011

Buddhism Course

Lesson 2 - Vows to Enlightenment

1.      Which of these guidelines do you think is the most important? Why?
What a challenging question to have an opinion about which guideline is the most important.  For me the four noble truths is a great place to start this journey.  The noble truths are simple however complex to apply consciously in daily living.  I believe that unconsciously we have been trained our minds to seek happiness as a goal.  In most cases our daily living presents more suffering to this attachment to happiness.

Reviewing and gaining understanding of these noble truths it is important to appreciate what Buddha's learnings.  According to Buddha, whatever life we lead, it has the nature of some aspect of suffering (sense of unease).  Even if we consider ourselves happy for a while, this happiness is transitory by nature. This mean that at best, we can only find temporary happiness and pleasure in life.  The more introspective we become, we start to see that this sense of unease happens at all levels of our existence.  

Being new to Buddhism it appears to be very pessimistic and confusing.  However to seek and understand what Buddha offers about the three kinds of suffering gives a perspective of the way of true living.  When I review my way of living I choose not to feel the suffering and be in denial or hide from the cause.  But through this way I suffer.  Living an idealist world that does not live to these expectations I have set in my mind.

Buddhism categorizes this experience into three kinds of dukkha (suffering): suffering from suffering, suffering from change, and all-pervasive suffering.
Suffering from Suffering: This is the most obvious, and is what we normally think of as suffering. It is something that is painful when here but pleasant when going away. Examples include hunger, thirst, and sickness; painful things by nature. Or it can be an argument such as a family quarrel after losing a job.
Suffering from Change: This is related to a sense of instability and unreliability: what goes up must come down. It is sometimes harder to locate this suffering because it relates to our reaction when things around us change in opposition to our desire. Relationships grow apart. Our favorite clothes wear out. A new boss takes over. We get old but want to look and feel young.  Change is a constant in our lives, but we would rather have everything stay the same. When it doesn't we often experience the distress of irritation, anger, fear or loss.
All-Pervasive Suffering: At its most profound, suffering is a condition that exists because of how we perceive ourselves in relation to the world. Taken from this view, our entire worldly experience is a definition of suffering that we cannot even see.  Having understood the nature of our experience at its most subtle allows us to work with it, to mold it, to change our perception through the wisdom of insight. It is like a dormant deadly disease; diagnosing it at an early stage is the beginning of its cure.  All-pervasive suffering is the aspect of existence that Buddhism ultimately strives to illuminate. 
Then the second noble truth "the cause of suffering is desire' uncovers the root cause of this and all other aspects of dukkha.  The simple explanation of the second noble truth is we cling on to our desires for something other than what is happening at this present moment.  The tighter we hold on to the desire and attach to our desire the more discomfort can be experienced.  Even when we are happy, we wish the joy will last.  
Then when we experience pain we fight against it.  We don't want to be in pain but the more we concentrate on it - and the madder we get at our circumstances - the more magnified it becomes.
This 'pushing back' against the bad or 'pulling toward' the good stems from our very concept of self. The second noble truth asks us to look closely at ourselves. The ego is a powerful mechanism. Our experience of ourselves as an individual, separate entity is well practiced. And as the separate entity we perceive ourselves to be, we are always positioning for the most pleasurable and secure destination.
Our concept of self, and our relationship to all our experiences originate in the mind. Dukkha or suffering therefore resides not in our experience itself, but our relationship to it - to how we perceive ourselves in our circumstances and more fundamentally how we perceive ourselves as beings.  Shakespeare wrote 'tis the self by which we suffer.  Changing our concept of self and building a positive belief structure of our identity of self will release suffering.  To accept what is in our control and what is not will release the desire and pain that maybe the cause of suffering.
The third noble truth - the end of desire leads to the end of suffering.  This noble truth presents that the root cause of our suffering resides in our mind.  The way out of this suffering is to look deeply at the true nature of mind and when you realise the true nature of mind, you achieve a liberation from suffering.  What this means is that we recognise and experience the way things truly are beyond our imprisoning thought of self-absorption.  We think beyond the ego filtered perspective of our typical daily interactions.  As we move towards this new direction, suffering will naturally subside.  Our relationship with experience shifts and allows us to let go of our need to protect our sense of self.  As we let go of the clinging hope for results from our actions we begin to experience life as a fluid and interconnected whole.  In Buddhism once we experience the realities of the second and third noble truths we understand the true nature of mind and we achieve enlightenment. 
The fourth noble truth - the way to end desire, and hence to end suffering is to follow the eightfold path.  This is the path to liberation from suffering.  This simple structure of eight prescriptives of how to live your life is the doorway into all buddhist thinking and daily practice.  With consistent practice in each of the eight categories establishes the conditions in which to achieve enlightenment and it teaches the methods to get there.

2.      What is the unifying concept of these guidelines?
The four noble truths and the eightfold path constitutes the heart of Buddhism.  The eightfold path is designed to practice it daily.  Through daily practice one can attain a higher level of existence and finally reach enlightenment.  The three primary groups into which the eight are arranged, attaining wisdom, moral conduct and mental development. 

3.      What do you think the Buddha would have to say today about "Right Livelihood?" Can you think of any positions in today's workforce that he might use as an activity one should avoid?  
Buddha would say to choose a living which does not harm yourself or others.  Harm can be physical, psychological or spiritual.  In the end, morality is a matter of seeing what will benefit you and others as situations arise in your life.   As wisdom and awareness increase through practice, beneficial choices become easier to see in the midst of the chaos of daily life.  The results of right livelihood comes from hard work and consistency.  Practice requires a balance of positive energy, focus and understanding in order to achieve results.  One workforce that Buddha might consider to avoid is becoming a soldier for combat.  This goes against the principles of right livelihood.  




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The Universal Life Church is a comprehensive online seminary where we have classes in Christianity, Wicca, Paganism, two courses in Metaphysics and much more. I have been a proud member of the ULC for many years and the Seminary since its inception.

The Universal Life Church offers hand-fasting ceremonies, funeral ceremonies and free minister training.

As a long time member of ULC, Rev. Long created the seminary site to help train our ministers. We also have a huge selection of Universal Life Church  minister supplies. Since being ordained with the Universal Life Church for so many years and it's Seminary since the beginning, I've watch the huge change and growth that has continued to happen.



Try our new free toolbar at: ULC Toolbar

Buddhism Course

Lesson 17
 
1. For me, Dharma Day touches my heart. I think that this first teaching in the Deer Park was the beginning of the sharing of Buddhism, and without that sermon, no one would have begun to learn how to practice. The sermon was a practical way to begin to view the world and live out your life.
 
2. To me, this means that no matter where one gets their food from, or builds a home, that we should take the example of the honeybee and treat the Earth, animals and the environment in general, with the gentleness of the bee. A bee does not ruin the flower it gathers pollen from to make honey. We also, should tread gently and purposefully.
 
3. I firmly believe that today, the Buddha would be a vegetarian for many reasons. First of them would be he would see how the factories and slaughterhouses treat the animals today, causing all sorts of horrific suffering to them and that energy of anger and fear is passed along to us. Second, animals today are massed produced, like cars, and pumped up with hormones and medicines that humans should not be ingesting. But personally, I believe he would be disgusted at the way other humans treat animals on these so called "farms" and since the world today has many many options for non-animal food, I think he'd be a vegetarian.
 
Rev. Mark J. Larose


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The Universal Life Church is a comprehensive online seminary where we have classes in Christianity, Wicca, Paganism, two courses in Metaphysics and much more.
Ordination with the Universal Life Church, is free,  and lasts for life, so use the Free Online Ordination, button.
The  ULC, run by Rev. Long, has created a chaplaincy program to help train our ministers. We also have a huge catalog of Universal Life Church materials.  I've been ordained with the Universal Life Church for many years and it's Seminary since the beginning and have loved watching the continual growth of the seminary.
Try our new free toolbar at: ULC Toolbar

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

Buddhism Course

Lesson #1
1.      Does the story of Siddhartha Guatama, particularly in the years before he became the Buddha, ring true? Is it legend or hearsay? Does it matter?
The story of Siddhartha Guatama maybe true however it does not matter.  The legend shows how a young man searching for more.  With his mind of curiosity and a knowing that there is more to explore.  The legend shows that a prince who has all the prized material possessions know he was missing something.  The courage to step away from the material wealth and comfort that it provides daily in search for what is missing.  As the prince steps out of his comfort zone to explore he finds difference and suffering by many.
The legend symbolizes the life we may live today.  It shows the distractions we have during our life that may take us away from enlightenment.  For some we may know that there is more to life however do not have the teachings, confidence to pursue and then left with the emptiness.  On a personal note this legend inspires me to explore a better way of living.

2.      What does enlightenment mean to you?
Enlightenment is one of those concepts that is so nebulous that it is challenging to define.  The definition of enlightenment from the dictionary is a state of giving intellect or spiritual knowledge.  It is a condition that revelation brings to the believer who have striven for its attainment having a pure intellect and sense of knowing.
What enlightenment means to me is a state that we can flow through.  It is not a state that stays with us.  It is a fleeting moment that changes you in the most profound way.  It is like a switch that shines just for the moment to add more light on life, the outcome may be a new way we view our life and world.

Then enlightenment is to be responsible for creating what you want in your life.  The limitations that we feel to attaining our enlightenment are from our own thinking.  We are self-imposed by our belief system that may limit us to the life we want to live.  To attain enlightenment is to realise that we create our own limitations in our mind and accept that we are not perfect.  It is through enlightenment that we can accept where we are, knowing that we have created this for some reason and through exploration of the limitation that has been placed by us.  If we push against the life created and resist we will be more trapped by it and experience it even more of it in our life.  All too often we perpetuate our pain, keep it alive by replaying our hurts over and over again in our mind.  Magnifying our injustices in the process.  We repeat our painful memories with the unconscious wish perhaps that somehow it will change the situation - but it never does.  

Unhappiness comes to each of us because we think ourselves at the centre of the world.  Unhappiness is feeling trapped in our own skin and trapped in our own brain.  The Dalai Lama speaks that it is important of accepting suffering as a natural fact of human existence.  What type of future will come about to a large extent, lies within our own hands in the present.  Our life will be determined by the kind of initiatives that we take now.  Enlightenment is to see what is, love and embrace it, and work through it. 

3.      Do you believe that enlightenment is possible? Is there more than one way to be enlightened? If so, what?
I believe enlightenment is a thinking of a higher type of concentration and knowing.  The mind can be conditioned and trained to attain this state with clear intentionality.  It is a training to cultivate happiness and a genuine inner transformation by deliberately selecting and focusing on positive mental states and challenging negative mental states.  The ultimate objective is for one to know life, understand this world and to see through its limitations with greatest of acceptance.  Enlightenment requires a tremendous capacity to knowing without attachment to the goal.  It is also requires a tremendous dedication to dedicate ourselves without ego to this highest state.  It requires a correct type of perception, deepest acceptance and philosophy to attain this highest state.   It is a journey.

Rosie Davoli

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The Universal Life Church is a comprehensive online seminary where we have classes in Christianity, Wicca, Paganism, two courses in Metaphysics and much more. I have been a proud member of the ULC for many years and the Seminary since its inception.

The Universal Life Church offers hand-fasting ceremonies, funeral ceremonies and free minister training.

As a long time member of ULC, Rev. Long created the seminary site to help train our ministers. We also have a huge selection of Universal Life Church  minister supplies. Since being ordained with the Universal Life Church for so many years and it's Seminary since the beginning, I've watch the huge change and growth that has continued to happen.



Try our new free toolbar at: ULC Toolbar

Monday, February 21, 2011

Buddhism Course

Lesson 11

1. What are some of the unique features of Mahayana Buddhism? The main practices of Mahayana Buddhism can be summarized in the six perfections: the perfection of giving ethics, patience, joyous effort, concentration and wisdom. Seek enlightenment for all sentient beings, not just their own.2. What is necessary to achieve bodhicitta? take bodhisattva vows3. Why do you think the Mahayana Buddhism appeals to such a large number of people? Because it is a Buddhism for all mankind, not only for the few. Enrique Sanz Bascuñana

*******************************
The Universal Life Church is a comprehensive online seminary where we have classes in Christianity, Wicca, Paganism, two courses in Metaphysics and much more.
Ordination with the Universal Life Church, is free,  and lasts for life, so use the Free Online Ordination, button.
The  ULC, run by Rev. Long, has created a chaplaincy program to help train our ministers. We also have a huge catalog of Universal Life Church materials.  I've been ordained with the Universal Life Church for many years and it's Seminary since the beginning and have loved watching the continual growth of the seminary.
Try our new free toolbar at: ULC Toolbar

Saturday, February 19, 2011

Buddhism

Universal Life Church Seminary - Buddhism Degree

MASTER OF BUDDHISM COURSE

This is an outstanding course for anyone who is interested in the religious background and teachings of the Buddha. This is an ancient religion and many of its teachings permeate our society in unusual ways.

Here are just a few of the interesting and “enlightening” things you will learn when you decide to pursue your own Master of Buddhism Degree:



Find out:

* Who was the Buddha? Has there been more than one Buddha? Find out here!

* What do the Buddhists consider the cause of ALL suffering?

* Learn the Buddhist secret philosophy to a happy life!

* Why is the lotus flower an important Buddhist symbol?

* What are the three most important Buddhist teachings?

* What is Nirvana? Is it really what you think it is……?

* Discover the rich cultural background behind this world religion!

* Find out where Buddhism originated, trace its history, and explore the meanings of its mysterious symbols! Lots of interesting stuff!

* Explore Buddhism's holy books and religious teachings for yourself!

* Learn about the power of Karma, and how it figures into the life of the Buddhist, as well as how it can apply to you!!!

* You will also enjoy learning about the Buddhist way of meditation, their philosophy of rebirth, and path to enlightenment! Wayyy too much stuff in this course to describe on one page!

We believe you will be pleasantly surprised with the quality of this course, once you choose to begin receiving it! Buddhism has been admired for decades for its appreciation of tolerance and respect for others.

The concepts of this peaceful religion have stood the test of time. Why not find out why, first-hand!

In this course, you will view the astonishing simplicity and beauty of a tradition that has transformed the civilizations of India, Southeast Asia, Tibet, China, Korea, and Japan—and has now become a stable component in the cultures of Europe, Australia, and now the United States.

Think about it: This is a chance for the person interested in Buddhism to pursue that interest, and earn a Master’s Degree at the same time!

What a unique opportunity!

Here’s why : This is a State-certified degree from ULC Seminary! Degrees in Religion from religious institutions traditionally are not accredited, however, for it to be recognized by the general public it must be State-certified to strict standards and guidelines.


We proudly adhere to the State’s policy, and thus, we are recognized as a legal Seminary. We are THE place to further your legitimate religious study, with regulated state standards, course guidelines, and mandatory work assignments that will enrich you on your path for truth. Imagine having the attractive Master of Buddhism Degree certificate framed, and hanging on your wall….and all the wisdom that comes from that awesome accomplishment!

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The Universal Life Church is a comprehensive online seminary where we have classes in Christianity, Wicca, Paganism, two courses in Metaphysics and much more. I have been a proud member of the ULC for many years and the Seminary since its inception.


The Universal Life Church offers hand-fasting ceremonies, funeral ceremonies and free minister training.

As a long time member of ULC, Rev. Long created the seminary site to help train our ministers. We also have a huge selection of Universal Life Church  minister supplies. Since being ordained with the Universal Life Church for so many years and it's Seminary since the beginning, I've watch the huge change and growth that has continued to happen.

Thursday, February 17, 2011

Buddhism


1.)           As I was reading this second lesson, I am seeing a lot of review. But mindful of my mindfulness, I choose to find pleasure in knowing. Then I got to the question section, first question-easy answer for me-Right Livelihood. I spent 4.2 decades doing something I was good at, but felt bad doing it, I did it well, and justified it by saying more people were happy and pleased that I had done it, and I was miserable for having done it. By being so miserable for so long, I was not on the path of contentment, sure it paid the bills, but at what cost. I found solace in I was making people happy, content, and pleased that they had partook of my works. Then I buried myself in religion in order to compensate for being so miserable.
To make matters worse at times, my Boss’s, Boss’s Boss’s, Boss was making and winning wagers placed on-local competitions between other Big Bosses at his level; other people who did what I did, competing against myself. In these situations Winning was all that mattered, no matter the cost-to anyone; Lee, just do what you do, and WIN.
In these competitions, I did not lose. The toll was huge, severe depression-untreated-why you ask. Lee, no you can’t go to the Doctor, must enter next contest, and must win. In-between contests, I was training others on how to win. Most did not have the discipline, most would not do whatever it took, and sure they were big talkers, but could not, did not Walk-the-Walk.
They wanted the quick, the EASY. Seldom had I found one whom showed interest, and was trainable. After about 18-28 months hitting it hard, they were exhausted-usually their First or Second Professional Burn-out, usually burned badly. Like emotionally and physically NUMB. Some of you will know what I mean when I say this isn’t about Voodoo, Hoodoo, or Vudu; Zombie Dance, now take it sixth or seventh Zombie Dance by the same person. Cross train to cross train, then on to Intermediate levels, cross train...then to Advanced levels, then cross train, and cross train, then get into the decision phase the Art of, or the Craft of, or both.
So many times I heard but why can’t I do what I want? Sure let’s do it your way…we would, they would lose, or place second or third. Not good enough-must WINS. Lee, this student must win, no matter the cost, or s/he is gone! Why Wins, well once is not good enough-must always win. I would go sometimes a very long stretch between students, none would even verbally commit. Even more would quit when they found out it isn’t easy. The only way to show the student what I said was true, was to let them experience, the why. They did not take First place, now I have lost them or they are onboard-full measure.
My very first question when interviewing was-forget what you know-it isn’t enough to consistently win. This isn’t about Tricks, or Slick moves, it is hard, and the hours are grueling. What you get out of it, is what you have heard about me, only your name will be said instead of mine-now do you want to commit, Yes or no? This isn’t a 40 or even a 60 hour week thing, if that is what you want, you can talk to anyone else, but not me! This is really hard, the more you learn, the more you find out how much you really do not know.
The Art is about technique, the Craft is about the science of it; combine them and you will win, all of the time. (Either)/Both (one) is exacting, and demanding, combined, it will break you down and reshape you into a totally new being, both mentally, and emotionally. The doing was not the hard part; it was seeing what happened to the student that tore me up-destroyed huge parts of self, myself and ME. The hardest, was people already trained, now part of my job was to show them, in person, in front of their own eyes how much they do not know.
One can visibly see the other person shatter, or just be consumed by the flames of not doubt, but humiliation combined with shame. Big name schools, thousands of dollars, decades of industry experience-completely wipe the slate that was the whole of their LIFE-totally null and void. Then the shock, the crumble, the doubt, anger, disbelief and then shame; not able to walk-the-walk. Then the Big Chill, avoiding at all cost-you, then eventually the Thaw, and in time the asking of how, what, and why? These, would go on to be some of my finest students-usually they would not complete their training, but see that it wasn’t a onetime fluke, and then comes the knowing they can’t walk-the-walk.
2.) Be good to the ALL; give yourself permission to be good to yourself, but never give in to that which destroys you or others. Harm none, including self; but do not give in to the weakness of indulgence-even just a tad. Being good to self and others does not mean indulgence. Be Good to the All. If a sample is enough, then a trough full is not good. If a bite is good, then a cup full is not good. If just one is enough, then a handful is not good-Be good. If better words are left unsaid, then say nothing-Be good. If what you see is not good, then close your eyes, and open them to the unseen, that which one now finds beauty in what is there, and not what you saw-Be Good. If rains, and no trees or shelter are to be found, then look up, open your mouth and drink, for it is pure, and clean, now it is inside of you-Be Good.
3.)  I think he would weep mournfully, with the ache and pain of knowing how much harm is and can be done, and is being done day in and day out. He would regain composure, and find the beauty in those few whom do what they do for the love of doing right-because it is correct.
They do not do for the monetary rewards, the social status, the qudos from associates and friends, nor the self bloated pride or sorrow these same self(s), associates and friends feel, knowing of what you the one does, or they think they know what it is that one does. I feel he would be aghast at the state of war and warfare today; feel deep shame in the porno and child prostitute trades. Not that it was unknown in his time as a mortal, but that it has evolved into the state of affairs it has today-even more corrupt and horrific.
I feel he would be grief stricken with state of illegal intoxicants in today’s’ time frame. Again, not because it was not unknown in his time, but at the broad range of distribution channels; and failure to address the situation in a meaningful and results driven manor, not the current prison industrial complex way of today.
Finally I believe he would be again moved to weeping at the state man has turned the planet into a problem with horrific consequences ahead of mankind. But then find beauty in the flower ahead, the mountain over in the horizon, and the bird that just flew into that tree, and the puddle in the road, left over from the drink earlier. Then the smile that comes with knowing.


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The Universal Life Church is a comprehensive online seminary where we have classes in Christianity, Wicca, Paganism, two courses in Metaphysics and much more. 
Ordination with the Universal Life Church, is free,  and lasts for life, so use the Free Online Ordination, button. 
The  ULC, run by Rev. Long, has created a chaplaincy program to help train our ministers. We also have a huge catalog of Universal Life Church materials.  I've been ordained with the Universal Life Church for many years and it's Seminary since the beginning and have loved watching the continual growth of the seminary.
 
Try our new free toolbar at: ULC Toolbar

Tuesday, February 15, 2011

Buddhism Course


1.            Could the fact that the Dharma wasn’t written by the Buddha himself be problematic? If so, in what ways? Dharma as defined in the teachings of the Buddha.
Not a problem at all. Like most religious and philosophical schools of thought-yes there may have been some creative licenses taken-maybe more than a few. But you make chocolate cake batter-then you have to leave-say go somewhere, and you say add some coconut to the batter before you bake the tins-I say ok. I look and no coconut, empty pockets, and the plastic is maxed out-no, what am I to do-I gave my word. So I search the pantry, the cupboards, everywhere, I find a can of sauerkraut, some tomatoes-peeled, some mace, some allspice, and two onions. 


I wash the sauerkraut in colander-three times in cold water. I fold it into the batter, in turn the tins onto a cooling rack; I put a German Chocolate filling in the middle layers, and top with a Dutch Chocolate Royale Icing. It has been covered. When you return you take a slice, grab a fork, and enjoy. I thank you for pre-making the filing, and having a candy thermometer for the Icing.
You see this stringy stuff in your cake, smile, and ask where the coconut came from. I smile, and show you the empty sauerkraut can-we have a good laugh. I look at you and say, it is called Fudge Surprise Cake, and we both know the surprise. Then I ask your forgiveness for not complying with your instructions. You wave it off, saying “shows good adaptability to the situation”. “You used what was available, under the circumstances=very good too, doesn’t taste like sauerkraut-either. No I washed it in cool water. What you say is, you appreciate I did not incur any additional expense to the household budget. Then you say, I wanted to see how you would carry out the instructions-you did well, and you did not hide the sauerkraut, you made a decision, and it worked out well. So did I change the original formula-yes, but it worked well, and it still had the stringy stuff, and no sauerkraut taste or smell-it was baked out. 
If no one told you it would be seamless, and continuity was retained-it has the same look and feel. I also put the sauerkraut can in the metal recyclables container, after cutting out the other end, and flattening the can. All is good, and sauerkraut is usually cheaper-in most USA markets, anyway. The concept for all appearances and taste buds is maintained, even after many generations, and lots of forks full’s of cake.
2.            Imagine you are preparing to go for refuge. What necessary changes would you need to make in your life first?
Personally I would like three days of aloneness to contemplate and meditate. This is a life change situation, so I do the three days, I prepay the bills for the period of the refuge, make the travel, transportation and lodging arrangements, put a holiday hold on the mail, pack-and close the door. Give me five days and I can be on the Light Rail to the Airport. Check customs do the body scans, and wait for the gate to open, board the plane. That simple, I have traveled a lot in the past. Part of the five days is the Visa, and credential check and approval. My passport is current. I live alone, and do not have pets, I have many critter friends, but none live with me. I keep my shots current, and have a medical insurance policy that is written for International coverage. I have HMO coverage for stateside issues, and still travel, just not as much as I used to. So Yes, five days, and I am there.
3.      When going for refuge, are you relying on forces outside of yourself for peace of mind, or are the Three Jewels ultimately found inside yourself?
The three Jewels most definitely, because it is a life changing event. For seventeen years I traveled a lot, I was usually home 30-65 days a year, and no more than three weeks at one time was I in the USA. Made for rapid promotions, but really hard on family life. You learn to write letters-this was pre-internet. You pick up a post card when and where you can. Usually the hardest part was finding a post office, and buying the postage. If someone was going into town, you hand them the letters you have written, and give that person-more than enough for the postage. Say the postage would be ten US Dollars, give them a twenty. By doing this, you had pretty good odds the letters would get posted. Once internet was up and available to the general public at a reasonable price; it seemed I traveled a lot less; then when internet cameras became common place and internet conferencing was available I used that to cut down on my traveling even more. Made for better family life.
I will even come with seven Bodhi tree seeds I got on eBay, so that I can ask permission to plant these seeds on the grounds. New seed, because I am a new student Seven because it is Holy and some say Sacred. Bodhi, because it was under one that the Buddha was able to find enlightenment. A free gift, because I come as a seeker, and searcher, I am new, as is the seed. If it meets with your approval Sister, may I pant these new life forms in the mother earth, to help those who may follow, and for those who remain a memory, a reminder that, that which was new-may bloom and grow-yet again anew?
I do this to Honor the Buddha, his teachings, and the Monks and Nuns that live here. A visual representation of this honor; this is a free will gift, not evil, I believe it to be good, and again there is the actualization for others-in the trees. Because being are numberless, and having vowed to save them- I ask to plant these Bodhi; because they will remain on the grounds after I have left-I am not attached to these Bodhi; when I plant these trees if allowed, it will bring seven more beings life-where there was not Bodhi. The truths of the Buddha I cannot match-but I will one day attain, that which is attainable.



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The Universal Life Church is a comprehensive online seminary where we have classes in Christianity, Wicca, Paganism, two courses in Metaphysics and much more. 
Ordination with the Universal Life Church, is free,  and lasts for life, so use the Free Online Ordination, button.
The  ULC, run by Rev. Long, has created a chaplaincy program to help train our ministers. We also have a huge catalog of Universal Life Church materials.  I've been ordained with the Universal Life Church for many years and it's Seminary since the beginning and have loved watching the continual growth of the seminary.
 
Try our new free toolbar at: ULC Toolbar

Monday, February 14, 2011

Buddhism

Lesson 7
 
1. Buddhists believe that death is a master. Do you agree? Yes, because conditions of life.2. What are the advantages or benefits of meditating on one's own death? Are there disadvantages? Only advantages, because it allows progress on the path to Nirvana.3. What do you think is the most important question: What happens when I die? o What is happening now? I think the second question is more important.

Enrique Sanz Bascuñana

*******************************
The Universal Life Church is a comprehensive online seminary where we have classes in Christianity, Wicca, Paganism, two courses in Metaphysics and much more.
Ordination with the Universal Life Church, is free,  and lasts for life, so use the Free Online Ordination, button.
The  ULC, run by Rev. Long, has created a chaplaincy program to help train our ministers. We also have a huge catalog of Universal Life Church materials.  I've been ordained with the Universal Life Church for many years and it's Seminary since the beginning and have loved watching the continual growth of the seminary.
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Friday, February 11, 2011

Buddhism Course

1. Why Zen Buddhists try to break the language barrier?  Because words can not express the spiritual experiences and less lighting. Have you had an experience where language has been done in the way of something intrinsic?  No.2. Why do you think the text of the koan collection is called the door without a door?  For the paradox is the koan, a paradox by breaking the limitation of the rational mind and may be a glimmer of knowledge.3. Why do you think the Zen is so attractive to Westerners? Because it is austere.4. Want to hear a joke? Yes.Q: How many Zen Masters has a screw in a lightbulb?A: The cypress tree in the courtyard. Enrique Sanz Bascuñana

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The Universal Life Church is a comprehensive online seminary where we have classes in Christianity, Wicca, Paganism, two courses in Metaphysics and much more. 
Ordination with the Universal Life Church, is free,  and lasts for life, so use the Free Online Ordination, button.
The  ULC, run by Rev. Long, has created a chaplaincy program to help train our ministers. We also have a huge catalog of Universal Life Church materials.  I've been ordained with the Universal Life Church for many years and it's Seminary since the beginning and have loved watching the continual growth of the seminary.
 
Try our new free toolbar at: ULC Toolbar