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Hello everyone, nice to be here. I've been interested in Buddhism for quite some time but have never been part of a Sangha or anything like that. I'm planning to go to a Zen meditation soon. I've been to a Tibetan, Kagyu centre a few times but i find the practice a bit too religious for me, i find Zen less religious and more philosophical, that's just my opinion anyway. I also believe in a God of some sort, which i know a lot of Buddhists don't, but the God i believe in is very different to the God that is portrayed in our major religions.
I'm hoping that Zen buddhism can help with my depression that i suffer from. I also suffer from problem drinking, i'm not an alcoholic i should add, but i would like to quit completely.
I'm looking forward to speaking to you all
Benny
I'm hoping that Zen buddhism can help with my depression that i suffer from. I also suffer from problem drinking, i'm not an alcoholic i should add, but i would like to quit completely.
I'm looking forward to speaking to you all
Benny
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Comments
Buddhism will help with any issues in life. Or, I should say, the proper and dedicated practice of Buddhism will. Buddhism provides a path, but you still have to do all the hard work.
Taking part in a meditation centre is great. I think it's particularly important to have a good teacher to guide you, along with a Sangha (which you'll find here through this forum, as well), when it comes to introducing yourself to Buddhism when suffering from depression. Zen is probably a great choice for you for a variety of reasons.
Best of luck.
I cannot say much more than was well stated above.
Retreat is good. Meeting spiritual friends & guides is good. Balance is good, step-by-step.
My best wishes for you.
DDhatu
Watching our emotions change allows the advantage of seeing the ability to go through the process of letting go, slowly. There is no hurry.
We are not our emotions, but pure awareness. And in the state of awareness feelings and thoughts arise that exist for being accepted and not denied. But sometimes the sitting can become somewhat overdone, if we are doing it for a purpose other than the intention to soften the hardness we cling to by holding on to "our" version of who "I" am. We are more than we think or feel.
Regarding this chat site, possibly it is good to describe a little more about what you are going through and how you got here. Then the members here can offer you comments and also share with you their own journey through feelings & experiences such as yours.
Regarding your life at home, it is good to find some connections with a Dharma group or some other kind of support. If you wish to make a transition and improve your life, having spiritual friends or supports is most helpful.
Regarding the mind, Buddhism teaches our difficult mental states are impermanent and through patient endurance, they can pass, purify & heal.
The sun emerging through the clouds is certainly possible & natural.
Warm regards
DDhatu
Hi Benny,
I'm sorry to hear of your suffering. I think you're well on your way to a happier life though because you're making some very wise choices.
It's lovely to meet you and I hope your suffering soon changes to peace and joy.