Questions to Part I - Buddhism

- One -

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?

Response:  It does not matter.  I've read Hesse's SIDDHARTHA and as when I read The Life of Christ, I was inspired to want to know more about the principles, the Noble Truths and the progression of the Buddha's followers through the ages.  Whether or not the back story is legendary, fact, or both is inconsequential to the fact that a spark was ignited that began a movement based on real teachings of one man (perhaps a conglomerate of several people) that began a movement that attracted followers of all intellectual and religious levels and culminated in one of the great religions of the world by 2011.

- Two -

What does enlightenment mean to you?

For me, Enlightenment is the cognizant knowledge that reality is perception and that our individual Truths are perception...totally relative to each individuals experience and vision.  With ACCEPTANCE, perceptions become clear as to whether they are right or wrong.  Knowing right from wrong is clarity...and clarity opens us up to the cosmic experience...being aware of all, accepting that we are moving through this life in pain...and that the way out is full circle to Enlightenment and Acceptance.  Enlightenment moves us forward to Truth...the great mystery...the next level of life experience.

- Three -

Do you believe that enlightenment is possible? Is there more than one way to be enlightened? If so, what?

We can not know if Enlightenment is possible until we have attained it...we can not know there is a heaven until we have entered it.  The path to Enlightenment, and/or Salvation, is through meditation, living in the present moment, acceptance, gratitude and compassion for other beings.  It has occurred to me that by consistent living the path to enlightenment IS Enlightenment.

Note to instructor:  Are answers to the questions to be more expanded upon and should they include reference points in the written material at hand?

Thank you.

Ron
Jose Morelos No. 76
Tangancicuaro 59750 Michoacan Mexico
TEL: Home; (011-52 from USA) + 355-553-5618
Cellular - 3515488456
Skype:  ronald.james.gilbertson