Getting Oriented

Buddhism, a non-theistic religion, is often described as a "mind-science." Tibetan Buddhism claims that through the systematic practice of its timeless methods, one's mind can be transformed into its highest potential of wisdom and compassion. Each individual is ultimately responsible for his own present and future happiness or despair.

Westerners are increasingly attracted to Buddhism because its ageless truths (called Buddhist Dharma) and psychological technologies (meditation in its various forms) appeal to both the heart and intellect.

A pleasant surprise for newcomers to Buddhism is its encouragement of open minded skepticism and tolerance of other religious views. The Buddha said 'Examine my teachings critically, as a gold assayer would test gold. If you find they make sense, conform to your experience, and don't harm yourself or others, only then should you accept them.'

The ultimate goal of Tibetan Buddhism is for an individual to evolve to the point of being able to skillfully help others in all possible ways (to become a living Buddha). This is accomplished by eliminating all our habitual destructive attitudes and perfecting all our good qualities, thus achieving the state of supreme enlightenment. To this end we dedicate our efforts and extend a warm welcome to new friends.

If you are completely new to Buddhism or would like to do some reading, Our Bookstore Manager has compiled a list of recommended introductory Buddhist books to help you get started. All of the titles on this list are available in our Bookstore.

If you'd like to ask questions about the Center and Buddhism in an informal setting, join us for one of our Newcomers Orientation sessions. Beginning immediately after the Sunday morning teachings on the second Sunday of each month (approx. 12pm), an experienced Center member will give a brief introduction to the Center and answer any and all questions.

New Member Orientation sessions are intended to help Kadampa Center new members feel comfortable about engaging in many aspects of Center activity. New Member Orientation sessions are offered monthly starting after the Sunday morning teachings on the third Sunday of each month (approx. 12pm). These sessions will include information about who we are as a group, how we are organized, information about our e-mails lists, and information about the different aspects of the center, such as the Bookstore and Library.

Both sessions are very informal and will allow for substantial feedback from newcomers and new members.

 

Kadampa Center, Raleigh, NC, USA
Affiliated with the Foundation for the Preservation of the Mahayana Tradition in the lineage of His Holiness the Dalai Lama