Amida-shu & the Future of Buddhism

Add a Comment

Comment by Konchog AlTorres on June 1, 2009 at 4:20pm

Greetings to one and all- The Shape of Things to Come - It reminds me of the title of the HG Wells Classic by the same name and the 1930's Sci Fi Classic by the based on it called "Things to Come". In both the issue of humanity seeking to overcome its inclination toward attachment is evident in the results which are war , pestilence, and destruction. It is only when humanity recognizes that the greater good based upon compassion, and active peaceful activities do they (in the shape of an enlightened Humanity) improve. It is interesting to note the even in the futuristic society of enlightened humanity problems still exist. The difference from them and those that were victims of desire is that the enlightened one have awareness. I could go on, but I think that the issue is that we all need to look closely at our motivations and what we are trying to accomplish on a daily basis. It is like a Buddhist 12 step program (like those used in Alcoholics Anonymous) - we recognize that we need to address the issue of desire and illusion having power over us - and that the Higher Power of our BodiChitta (Buddha Mind) gives us the ability to overcome and move on to a greater sate of consciousness for the benefit of all sentient beings. So, for me the Shape of Things to Come depends on our ability to not only remain faithful to our practice, but to make practical application of that practice in all we do, say, and live on a daily basis- Most especially in our interactions with those less aware. I tend to agree with Karen Armstrong in her Charter for Compassion - It is up to each of us.
we seek to internalize that which is within us and become aware of our potential - we should therefore then take that which we have learned and externalize it to the world about us so that the light may serve to help others on their path as well. As they say in Brooklyn, New York where I am from "we Gotta Talk The Talk - And Walk The Walk - Otherwise we are Just Jiving and Playing a Game" - I am not being self righteous, and do not seek to cause offense- Only sharing that we need to make waht and who we are a reality to all those about us - So, that through our living examples - others may wish to emulate us and "Pass it On".

Comment by Dr. Arbind on May 25, 2009 at 2:44pm

We have to think about welfare of masses through Buddhistic approches like Teaching Centres, Health care centres, Patient care centres, Old age homes & others Social welfare services along with Dhamma teachings ... !

Comment by Clark Strand on May 24, 2009 at 4:55pm

I'd agree. Testaments in Buddhism have traditionally been pretty short, like this one by Honen: Ichimai-kishomon