Question: “I really really want to be a Buddhist, but I’m too afraid to tell my parents. I’m afraid they’ll be mad or sad, but in my mind I’m already a buddhist. Can I go to vihara/temple if I’m not a buddhist? I really want to talk to the monks, can I?”
If in your mind you’re already Buddhist, then why do you feel you have to tell anyone? If you feel the need to tell everyone, then you’re not really a Buddhist. Calling ourselves a Buddhist is another title to add to our ego and then our ego will want to flaunt it and announce it to the world, pulling you deeper and deeper towards the wrong path.
A Buddhist that is not a Buddhist is a true Buddhist.
Anyone and everyone is welcome at Buddhist temples. Most temple visitors are not Buddhists and are simply curious people that want to experience and see something new and interesting. Many temples will usually serve lunch or dinner after services, and that is usually the opportunity to sit down with the Sangha and ask questions.
Smile and be well!