Two years ago I did not follow a particular religion. One night I decided to make a list of characteristics to construct my own religion. I am not sure where the list is located today, but I recall my religion as having a peaceful and positive outlook towards self, society, and life. I did research to find a religion similar to the one I created on my own. The most similar religion I found was Buddhism.
I have never spoken with a practicing Buddhist and I have never visited a Buddhist temple. My knowledge of the religion came from the books I have read and websites I have visited. At one point I became passionate about the religion and wanted to learn as much as I could. Manhattanville College offers a variety of religion courses. I decided to enroll in the Religions of India course.
I would not define myself as a Buddhist any longer, but I do have a lot of respect for the religion. I look at it as a lifestyle. Many religions center faith on God. Buddhists on the other hand do not believe in God. Buddhists find strength, peace, and wisdom through self-mediation.
There are many well-known symbols of Buddhism. My favorite symbol is the lotus flower. I have a tattoo of the words lotus flower written in Sanskrit on the inside of my wrist. The lotus flower symbolizes the struggle of life, rising above bad situations, personal growth, and beauty.
I really enjoyed reading this entry. I think it's great that you found something that means a lot to you, and that you can relate to whenever you need to. I think it's important for everyone to find something like that.
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