Reflection #5: Bongwonsa Temple and Nature Walk

After visiting the Zen Buddhist Temple, Bongwonsa and attempting to see nature as a Taoist, answer this question: What is it about creation, nature, etc. that prompts humans to seek out religion? Why would people spend their lives seeking out religious truth, nurturing faith or worshipping creation?
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Creation. This universe, including the earth that we live on, is a magnificent creation. We, as human beings, don't truly realize the astonishing beauty of the world. Thus, we take it all for granted. We don't even realize how our very own existence, is breathtaking. We consider actions such as walking, breathing, and talking to be elementary. We could complete these actions without a second thought. However, the abilities of the human body, spirit, and mind are unbelievable. They are as unbelievable as a fantasy. Then, the question surges through our minds. Who created the world? Who created us? The answer to these questions require much more than a simple response. The question demands for a much more complicated answer. 


A couple of weeks ago, I watched the play "Our Town." There was a quote from the play that had struck me. Rebecca Gibbs said, "...on the envelope the address was like this:Jane Crofut; The Crofut Farm; Grover's Corners; Sutton County; New Hampshire; United States of America; Continent of North America; Western Hemisphere; the Earth; the Solar System; the Universe; the Mind of God -- that's what it said..." After the play I sat and contemplated, I put everything into perspective. I realized that humans are just a small piece compared to the whole. Also, humans seek the truth because our nature triggers the desire to solve the mysteries of the world. Therefore, scientists and other human beings try to solve the riddle. They use reason and other discoveries to build theories. But, a scientific formula won't provide an answer. Hence, people have created their own ideas to satisfy themselves. They created their own religions, their own God. By believing that a God exists, they can obtain a better understanding to the world's greatest mysteries. 


One of the greatest mysteries and arguments present is the topic of life after death. This is supported by the Buddhist and Hindu religion because they both have the belief in life after death. They believe that one can be reincarnated to reach nirvana or peace with one's inner self. They believe in the religion because they want to decipher the meanings and mysteries of the world. 


Perfection shaped by the hands of the greater being, and in religious terms "God." 
Quote found from: http://thehipp.org/perspectives/04_05/our_town/characters/all.htm

Modern Religious Experience: Reflection #4: Buddhist Meditation

Modern Religious Experience: Reflection #4: Buddhist Meditation: "Spend 20 mintues in a silent meditation; a place you won't be disturbed, your own 'fig tree' as was Buddha's inspiration. In those 20 minutes..."


The assignment required for one to meditate and attempt to attain right thought, mindfulness, and concentration. I sat on my bed, in the lotus position. I expected the task to be simple and quick, but I was completely wrong. During the first 10 minutes, I was distracted by the slightest sounds and movements. Also, I caught myself constantly checking the clock. It felt as if time had slowed down. My mind had wandered to random thoughts of food, volleyball, and homework. Finally, I tried to remember what we had discussed in class and ways to clear my mind. I began to breathe deeply through my nose and felt my shoulders relax. I didn't completely empty my mind, but I felt very calm and at peace. I felt relieved of stress and my mind no longer thought about the essay due tomorrow, or dinner. In spite of that, I felt inspired to exercise my body and help the environment. I'm actually not quite sure how those thoughts had formed in my head. I suppose they formed when I began to think about life's truths. After I was finished with my meditation, I took action. I went outside, started jogging and recycled my milk carton. Truthfully, I believe that this meditation influenced myself for the best.