So I have recently started looking into buddhism and it all seems like it’s a lil too much to get into( overwhelming) especially coming from a strong Christian town/culture. So I guess… Where would one such as myself start, how can I begin to incorporate Buddhism into my daily life, and how can one do this in a ” small town USA” where it’s a “our way or the highway” culture ( as in I got kicked out from the store because I had my bracelet that looks kinda like Buddhist beads)
I have a love/hate relationship with small towns. I’ve lived in one for many years before I moved to the “big city” with the help from movers miami and man what a relief! Geez Louise!
Anyway. Yes, Buddhism is extremely comprehensive and at times very overwhelming. There’s so much to tackle, it’s nearly impossible to truly be able to get to everything in one lifetime! But… Getting to everything is really unnecessary. The Buddha said that just by being able to master the Eightfold Path, we can attain enlightenment.
Start with some of these FAQs and the link to the Basics of Buddhism. My recommended “syllabus” to begin and start your journey is lengthy in terms of what you’re going to be studying and for how long, but it will definitely help you “master” the teachings.
In your first year, tackle the four noble truths and the eightfold path with also a meditation practice. Spend one whole month on each of the truths and paths. I know that can seem like a lot of time, but in truth, each of those truths and paths has a LOT of information and the wisdom you gain from them through contemplation and meditation will help you immensely. So for the first 12 months, you spend it on that.
The next 12 months, spend one month on each of the twelve links of dependent origination. Truly “mastering” and understanding the 12 links is extremely important, because they are really the foundation of any other major teaching in Buddhism, and a full understanding of the links will make your future studies and practice so much easier and smoother.
Then once those 2 years are up, you can basically take up electives and start dipping your toes in sutra studying and other bigger teachings like emptiness, the six perfections, etc.
Smile and be well!