As regular readers of this blog will know, I am an atheist. But that does not mean I don't have the ability to recognize good advice when I see it -- even if it comes from a religious icon. The following advice, found at the blog
The Immoral Minority, is said to have come from the Buddha. We would all be better off to follow it. (NOTE -- the above picture of the Buddha was painted by mexican artist Octavio Ocampo.)
Do not believe anything on mere hearsay.
Do not believe in traditions merely because they are old and have been handed down for many generations and in many places.
Do not believe anything on account of rumors or because people talk a a great deal about it.
Do not believe anything because you are shown the written testimony of some ancient sage.
Do not believe in what you have fancied, thinking that, because it is extraordinary, it must have been inspired by a god or other wonderful being.
Do not believe anything merely because presumption is in its favor, or because the custom of many years inclines you to take it as true.
Do not believe anything merely on the authority of your teachers and priests. But, whatever, after thorough investigation and reflection, you find to agree with reason and experience, as conducive to the good and benefit of one and all and of the world at large, accept only that as true, and shape your life in accordance with it.
Do not accept any doctrine from reverence, but first try it as gold is tried by fire.
That's the tragic beauty of buddhism, that what started out as one man's well considered philosophy was corrupted into yet another religion and cash cow for so many. I dearly love buddhist thought, but I can't bring myself to "become" a buddhist.
ReplyDeleteAs a former employer of mine once said, all religion is someone's money making scheme. From on atheist to another, happy christmahannakwanzaca!
Well said, Thurman. And a very happy solstice holiday season to you, my atheist friend.
ReplyDeletePerhaps neither of you have encountered true buddhists. True buddhism is not a religion, but a philosophy, a way of life. You dont become a buddhist... if you think like a buddhist, agree with the buddhist, embrace the buddhist approach to life, you simply are a buddhist.
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