Modern Religious Experience: Reflection #5: Bongwonsa Temple and Nature Walk

Modern Religious Experience: 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,..."

In society today, we are bombarded and immersed in an increasing number of scientific facts, discoveries and solutions to theories. Because we now have more access to historical information scientists and historical educators have found scientific evidence to some of the world's oldest religions' questions and beliefs. The reason people turn to creation and nature to seek out religion is because it's the purest most natural source of any living thing. It is the beginning of everything and people feel at one with nature, in itself nature is probably the most peaceful thing on earth. People attempt to empty their mind and feel nature's earthly vibrations whilst seeking religious truth, nurturing faith, or worshipping creation. Most people seek answers to life's most befuddling questions. To do so, some dedicate their entire lives, spending day and night meditating, fasting, praying or bowing. People may spend their lives seeking religious truth, nurturing faith or worshipping creation to become better people. For example, in Buddhist religions, people work their way to reach Nirvana, the state of eternal happiness. Hindus also believe in liberation of the soul from the effects of karma, and reincarnation, and work towards being a better person to later be reborn in a greater state.

While walking through the mountains I really took the time to appreciate nature and it's blessings. Sometimes whilst walking with my friends we would just stop our conversation and take a moment to absorb all the beauty and abundance. It made me realize how influential nature could be on a human being and to their soul. During our tour of the temples, I learned that Buddhists pray and pray for their utmost desires. I also learned that if one's wish was to come true the person must have the clearest of minds and the purest of thoughts. Buddhists are very dedicated people, they definitely are focused enough to clear their heads for long periods of time. Religion in general helps one reconnect with their inner self and requires a lot of self-discipline. Nature helps bring unity to one's mind and buy praying and believing in spirits helps the answers become more clear.

Modern Religious Experience: Reflection #4: Buddhist Meditation

Modern Religious Experience: Reflection #4: Buddhist Meditation:

During my 20 minute meditation time, I tried to empty my mind and body as much as I possibly could. I concentrated on the rhythm of my breathing and inhaling and exhaling. I would say I achieved quiet for only 5 minutes because it was too hard to achieve right concentration for the entire meditation period. My mind was too distracted because I was creating a list of all the homework assignments I needed to complete before Monday. Also, the other day I had a rather serious argument with my Mom, this took up a good 70% of my mind, making it hard to fully commit myself to thinking empty thoughts. My "fig tree" was in the garden, just being outside brought a more serene vibe to my mind, and helped with attaining of "right thoughts" and "right mindfulness". Meditating for only 20 minutes helped me realize how Buddhists are so focused since they can meditate for days on end.