ekayana

Hello,

Having come to Thailand with the intention of learning about/practicing 'Buddhism', I was initially surprised to see so much superstition and superficiality going on. I'm now beginning to realise, that for some, the practice of honouring local 'spirits' of nature/deities inhabiting trees etc. can, as you said, be quite compatible with the teachings of the Buddha. Ofcourse, in many cases it is clear that the devas are implored to grant wishes/aid their supplicants but I recognise too that there are those who are making the offerings out of respect and appreciation of nature. They understand the interconnectedness between all things and they see the humble offering both as a salutation to the inhabitants of the spiritual realms aswell as an ornament for the heart; it is an act of lifting the mind/heart, therby cultivating a sense of joy within oneself through the practice of generosity.

These days, whilst keeping the Buddha, Dhamma, Sangha as my Refuge and guide, I also occasionally give a nod in the direction of those inhabitants of the spiritual world with a fervent wish for their well-being.

:-)

Hello,

Perhaps they are all over the place but perhaps they don't call themselves farang because they are educated English teachers teaching good English...Just a thought :-)

Gay westerner (26) in Surin

I enjoyed "Amongst White Clouds" :-)