Issues with Buddhism

I have at times identified myself as a buddhist, as there are many very positive aspects of this religion. The religion itself is very thoughtful, quiet and compassionate, its leader is very likable and buddhism tends to focus on things most people would agree are laudible.

A central part of buddhism is meditation, which regardless of your religious ilk (or lack there of) is something that is always good for a person. Quiet contemplation is a great way to both deal with lifes stresses as well as come to terms with problems one faces.

The central theme of all flavours of buddhism is the notion of enlightenment. What is enlightenment? As with most religions, it means different things to different people, but it all boils down to a "true" understanding of oneself and of the world around us.

Where buddhism fails in a very real sense is that no one ever becomes enlightened! No one ever transcends into some sort of divine state of existance. It simply doesnt happen, because, well, this is it...life is life, there are no dragons, elves, ghosts nor enlightenment. I say embrace the positive aspects of buddhism, or any religion, but don't ever fall for the bullshit promises.

As the Buddha said so very long ago...

"Do not believe in anything simply because you have heard it. Do not believe in anything simply because it is spoken and rumored by many. Do not believe in anything simply because it is found written in your religious books. Do not believe in anything merely on the authority of your teachers and elders. Do not believe in traditions because they have been handed down for many generations. But after observation and analysis, when you find that anything agrees with reason and is conducive to the good and benefit of one and all, then accept it and live up to it.”

Hindu Prince Gautama Siddharta, the founder of Buddhism, 563-483 B.C.