I think im a Buddhist...?

Question

I'm 13 and have been raised in a big Chrastian family, and I've been reading up on Buddhism. I really like the teachings of the Buddha, and think it might be the right path for me. Are there any Buddhist's out there that can help me?

Answer 1

you are not a buddhist. Your a 13 year old who's learning about the world and other's ideas. Don't stop at buddhism.
Learn about it yes, but realize it isn't the ONLY answer. there's many many many more schools of thought out there.

christianity wasn't the answer was it? it didn't stop you to explorer right?
don't stop at buddhism either.

for all the thumbs down, I'm not saying buddhism is wrong. Its just that know that you've gotten away from Christianity, enjoy your learning freedom before jumping into the next boiling pot.

try this on for size. Its a real eye opener if your looking for answers about what "on the other side"...........

programs run up to down not right to left. its a long set, but hang in there.
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/elegant/program.html

and please, ALWAYS keep you mind open and try to see how different religions relate to you in different ways.

Answer 2

Do a lot of research, honey. Go to your local library and check out some books on the Dali Lama, Mantra, even try the "Idiot's Guide to Buddhism" (which is a great intro) Practice meditation, sit quetly and find yourself. You don't have to become a Buddhist to practice Buddhism.

I was in the same boat as you, I read everything I could get my hands on, I have even went to a few buddhist classes. You don't have to take refuge yet, first explore every avenue, meditate, feel one with yourself.

If you want to become a Buddhist, become one, if you decide to become something else, you can still take the Buddha's advice.

Many blessings to you, good luck in your search within.

Answer 3

I'm not a Buddhist but I've also done some study of Buddhism. There are many admirable things to be learned and lived. Keep studying... Read about other faiths too. You will find the right path for you and be more aware and compassionate of others' faith from your diverse studying.
Good luck!

Answer 4

I am very pleased that you are taking an interest.

However, you are 13 and Buddhism is a life-long process.
My advice is to learn as much as you can and enjoy what's left of your childhood.
You can learn about Buddhism and Christianity without having to make any serious commitments.

I recommend the teachings of H.H. The Dalai Lama XIV. But reading his books might be a little confusing for a 13 year-old. It took a lot of concentration for me even at age 27 when I first picked up one of his books.

Good Luck and have fun.

Answer 5

In my opinion, Buddhism exists for our own sake while Abrahamic faiths make us out to be bad and must exist for God's sake. It has great teachings and are ironical close to Jesus' humanitarian teachings. Buddha represents the time religion converted to being oriented toward compassion, and Jesus accelerated the idea. But I think many Christian's concentrate on the supernatural aspects and forget the humanity

I recommend, "God and Buddha," by Mystic Fire Video and Discovering Buddhism series found at, www.fpmt.org

Answer 6

Well man, in philosophy, they believe in what is call a, "speculative overview." Meaning that they don't look only on 1 perspective or 1 view for the Truth of Life but rather they make themselves open minded and they try to learn from all the perspectives and views from all sects, masters, and different minds and ways of thinking.
I'm a Catholic but I also read what Buddha has to say and I liked it very much just like you. But to sum it up, all I'm saying is don't stop at what he teaches and abandon and frown upon other religions. Keep searching for what "similiarities" in all religions and religous beliefs. Because there's a saying that all religions are 1 and even though each one of us have different methods of practicing spirituality or walk on different paths, in the end, we all will reach the same destination of salvation. Nobody is the same when it comes to cultivating the spiritual essence so find your own path to journey on. Good luck kid!

Answer 7

I am a Christian, but many of my friends have become Buddhists or were born Buddhists. You can become a Buddhist, but I have a hint that may help you. One of my friends, Jakeb, has become a Buddhist, and before he took the "Three Refuges", which formally declares you a Buddhist, he joined a Buddhist temple and learned more about the life of a Buddhist. If you have already visited the temple, and decided that you want this, I'm saying go for it. Hope this helps! Also, here are some sites that can help you.

Answer 8

You're not a Buddhist yet, but keep learning until you find a philosophy and religion you feel comfortable and happy with. Find out everything you can about Buddhism before you become a devotee.

Answer 9

Get shown how to do zazen (sitting meditation).

This isn't a fancy and interesting answer, but zazen IS Buddhism. All the books that you read about Buddhism are from the minds of those who practice zazen.

Practice zazen.

Answer 10

Study hard, keep reading -- you're already on the right "path." Try to obey your parents and treat people decently. Worry about Buddhism and other religions after you get older.