An Introduction

One of the best things that ever happened to me was pure chance. I was working at a credit union at the time, and had transferred to a branch that was closer to home. A guy named Chris worked there, and we quickly struck it off. Among the things that I came to find out about him was that he was an ex-Marine and a Buddhist. At the time I had a lot of questions regarding my personal beliefs and philosophy, and he lent me a paperback book called Buddhism Plain and Simple. Reading this book opened a door in my mind that had long been closed, locked and bolted. I felt renewed, rejuvenated, enlightened and really alive for the first time in a very long time. I read it and a couple other books on Buddhism, and I was on top of the world.

However, over time I've not dedicated time to studying Buddhism or renewing my personal beliefs. Because I put this aside, I have lost my way. I should have known that maintaining a personal philosophy requires dedication and practice, but I'm like the person who takes his prescription until he feels better, doesn't follow through with it, and becomes sick again (I'll admit I do this too sometimes).

The reasons I've started this blog, and I want to continue to do so, as I have a tendency to start one and give up on it in a week or so, are twofold: I want to give myself an outlet to renew my views on Buddhist teachings, and secondly, I want to help others. The past year of my life has been full of changes: I've moved in with my fiancee - we're getting married in less than three months - and I've gone back to college. It's important for me to get my life straightened out, and I think this blog will be a good therapeutic tool in doing so. Also, if anyone out there comes across this and changes their life for the better because of it, that would be great. If can at least entertain someone for a few minutes, that's good too.

I encourage everyone reading to please comment and discuss, whether you have a question or an idea to share. Constructive criticism is welcome as well.

On my next post, I am going to start talking about the four Noble Truths and how they pertain to everyday life.

Thanks for reading,
Jeff L.