Question: “I have been studying buddhism for about 2 years now. Reading books, watching documentaries, and have been practicing meditation on my own for quite some time. The more I read the more I notice all these big non-English teachings that I should know about but can’t remember any of it no matter how hard I study it .. It stresses me out and i don’t know how to take it all in. I don’t know a spiritual teacher in person so I’m a bit lost. Thank you in advance, namaste!”
Buddhist philosophy can be extremely overwhelming. Buddhist vocabulary is even more overwhelming! Don’t stress out. Buddhism is a lifelong study and practice. Even senior and high ranking monks don’t know the full extent of Buddhist teachings! It’s impossible to take in the entirety of the teachings in one lifetime no matter how smart we are.
I’ve been studying Buddhism for over 7 years and I still see new words and terms I’ve never heard of before! Fortunately for me, I keep a notebook and take notes for every book I read, documentary I watch and Dharma teaching I attend. And a separate book dedicated only to Buddhist vocabulary and terms. Which is moderately complied in my Buddhist Glossary.
So don’t stress out. Take is easy and step-by-step. If you try to rush your studies or understandings, then you’ll never be successful. Buddhist practice is all about patience, without it you will fail.
Smile and be well!