General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: Lots of Democrats are Christian. Why All the Hate? [View all]usedtobedemgurl
(1,172 posts)But I wondered about OPand why they are Buddhist and yet hated deeply for so many years. I know a history of some Buddhism. I was comparing personal journeys.
For my personal journey, I realized how controlled Buddhism was. The thought process is if you do not think it, you will not do it. You need strength of mind to control your emotions.
I grew up in the Catholic religion. Every Sunday you could hear the folks around you criticize what this person or that was wearing and gossiping about one and all. I did not like the hypocrisy. It was a turn off. Therefore, instead of becoming Buddhist at 16, I decided my mind was not strong enough to honor the religion and its ways. I read up on the philosophy and hoped one day I would feel prepared. I was so grateful when that day came: I have not been as disciplined as I would have liked, but I have put in a ton of effort.
I felt sad when I read the OP about their long hatred while being Buddhist: I imagine them being anguished and torn. Buddhism teaches us these emotions cause us much harm. So, rather than focusing on downfalls, which exist everywhere, I was wondering how the OP got to the point of toxic (I believe all hate to be toxic) hate and what texts/teachings within the Buddhist teachings brought them to that point. When you strive to understand someone, you also gain understanding into yourself and society as a whole. I have met many Buddhists and saw the Dalai Lama multiple times. I have never heard the words I hate/hated from any of their mouths. I am genuinely curious. But I cannot ask you, since you are not the OP.