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Making Friends as a Buddhist in a closed minded community.

NGphotographerNGphotographer
edited July 2012 in Buddhism Basics
I live in an area where it is very isolating to be different from the norm. I found it hard to make friends because everyone I go to school with is so into stuff like drinking and going out to clubs. Does anyone have suggestions on how to begin making friends in this kind of community. All the student orgs are purely christian and I don't know enough about buddhism to start my own club. Plus, I think starting one would isolate me even more. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks!

Comments

  • CloudCloud Veteran
    edited July 2012
    Find something other than religion to be a part of or define you (or the club), some activity or hobby or something. There are bound to be some people who are not about going out and partying... find those kinda people.
  • SileSile Veteran
    Chess club, many sports clubs, book clubs, outdoor/nature clubs, and martial arts clubs/schools are often peopled with those who want something out of life besides dulling the brain, in my experience.

    I don't know what age you are, but Explorers and Civil Air Patrol generally have great people, too.

    Is there anything like these in your area?
  • sovasova delocalized fractyllic harmonizing Veteran
    Dare to be different

    start a kite flying club
  • RichardHRichardH Veteran
    edited July 2012
    It is a challenge to practice the Buddha way even with the support of a Sangha, because our general culture is so geared to not being mindful or having any degree of sense restraint. Doing it alone while immersed in that culture is a lot tougher. Like other people have said, it would be a good idea to find other things to share... there are surely things in common with the people around you. For your Buddhism it may be better to just engage the Maha-Sangha (Sangha at large) through this medium, if there is nothing on the ground where you are. There are even ways to to engage in live group sitting online, and that can provide real community support.
  • karastikarasti Breathing Minnesota Moderator
    You'd be surprised how many people you assume are drinking who go out with friends, who don't. Most young people these days arrange for Designated Drivers to accompany them, you can order virgin drinks and no one will know any different other than you. And, if the only people you come across are those who will only be your friend if you are just like them, then they aren't the types of friends you want to spend your time with. You'd be surprised, even in the most judgmental areas, how many varied groups there are once you open yours eyes to finding them. Colleges, even very small ones, are great places to learn about other types of groups and events. Or get involved with a community art scene (even our town has a large art scene and we only have 3400 people). Or nature conservancy groups. These types of groups exist almost everywhere, they are just more visible and sometimes you have to find them :)
  • NGphotographerNGphotographer
    Thanks everyone for their comments and suggestions, They were helpful! :)
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