As a child I was taken to church by my parents, usually on Christmas or other related holy days, and eventually was sent to a parochial high school and one year of denominational college.
I felt I was pushed into these situations and was force-fed a certain kind of theology. And in turn, I became a “fence sitter” for most of my life. A fence sitter is someone who sits on top of the fence and watches the religious and nonreligious, waiting for some reason to join one of the sides.
I am 28 now, and what changed my life for the better was taking a martial arts class called Muay Thai, which is the Thai style of self-defense. Studying Muay Thai and learning about Thai culture, I soon began a quest into the study of Buddhism.
I like to classify Buddhism for myself as a sub-religion, or more of a workable philosophy.
A key point that Buddhism teaches me is that every human being suffers, and by accepting this, I can begin to slowly overcome these suffering points, which in turn can and will lead to enlightenment.
Compassion is one of the key points for me to use when thinking of Buddhism and overcoming the thoughts that lead to suffering.
I try to look at each and every living being as a loving mother, and act accordingly. I now do not allow myself to kill any sentient beings, from large mammals down to the smallest insects. This will enable good karma (destiny) for this and the next life. There is a breaking point between Buddhists, where some believe in reincarnation and some do not believe this. I believe only in spreading love and kindness to those around me.
Another very important point I remind myself is that nothing bought, stolen or otherwise acquired will bring me happiness. I will give an example: I researched all these neat little gadgets like the Apple iphone and XM Radio Player, and finally decided on a Microsoft Zune MP3 player. I spent hours and hours loading this thing up with a thousand songs, then, about a month later, I didn’t even use it anymore. I’ve heard this is very common. I use my understanding of Buddhism to find a way through its teachings to be happy with what I have.
The books I read most are “The Teaching of Buddha” By Bukkyo Dendo Kyokai, the “Tao Te Ching” by Lao Tzu, any philosophical book by the late “Bruce Lee,” and ”The Way Of The Peaceful Warrior” (recently made into a movie) by Dan Millman.
I believe everyone has innate and learned pertinent knowledge. For me, it is possible to learn through opening the eyes and ears to people around me. My personal philosophy is “Knowledge comes from listening and learning, and through listening and learning, others will listen to you.”
Brian Patrick Merrick practices Zen Buddhism from time to time with the Nyen Gyud Samten Choe Ling Buddhist community in Eugene, and studies at the Eugene Buddhist Priory. This column is coordinated by Lane Interfaith Alliance, a network of more than 40 religious traditions and spiritual teachings. For more information, visit www.laneinterfaithalliance.org or call 344-5693.