Interestingly, this is an interview with someone who is of the Buddhist faith just as I am, but I still found his answers diverse enough to be quite enlightening. Sadly, he elected to remain anonymous…
1.) What is your chosen faith?
Buddhism.
2.) Please briefly describe the basis of your faith, as you see it.
The Buddha provides guidelines for experiencing the true nature of all things. Following the path of the Buddha frees us from the prison of our ego. The Dharma (teachings of the Buddha) tells all how to live each moment to the fullest.
3.) Were you (and your mate) raised in your chosen faith? If not, how did you learn about it?
No, we were both raised Protestant. I learned about Buddhism gradually through reading philosophy and through the many and varied Spiritual teachings of a friend.
4.) What is the most compelling element of your chosen faith, for you?
I have found how to live in harmony with the Universe in each moment as I have always wished. As long as one can remain mindful, one can have this experience as a constant in life.
5.) How often do you experience others’ prejudices directed toward you regarding your faith?
I have been concerned about my mother’s view as she is devoutly Christian, but she has accepted the tenets of my faith.
6.) Would you briefly describe one such incident, how it made you feel and what you did about it?
I have no incidents to describe. I only talk about religious issues with those I trust. I don’t wear my beliefs on my sleeve, but don’t hide them either.
7.) What is your favorite faith tradition?
The high regard for all people and every moment. Buddhism embraces all compassionate religions.
8.) If you could dispel the most common misconception about your faith, what would it be and how would you go about it?
The only misconceptions I see are those by some Christians who think anything non-Christian is somehow demonic or evil.
9.) If you left a previous faith for the one you now call your own, why did you do so and how do you feel about your previous faith?
I was Protestant and hold no ill will toward my religious heritage. The scope of the Christian faith was not enough for me. Judeo-Christian tradition separates us from our world. It allows the waste and disregard for all things non-human that is (to me) such a problematic part of Western civilization.
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