Epiphany at work...

[alsaihn]

Strange how discussion of one thing leads to a realization about something completely different.. The more I learn about Buddhism, the more I realize that a lot of religions have some of the same concepts for things, but then take a different tack on how to relate to those concepts. As I understand it, both Shamanism and Buddhism recognize a fairly similar version of the "web of life" concept.. everything being interconnected and interdependent. I think the reason I could never actually BE a Buddhist rests in the different treatment of that web. A Shaman needs to realize this concept so that they can become part of it, realize that we're fundamentally nothing without it, and that our existence starts and ends in those interconnections and interdependence. I think for a Buddhist, learning this concept is necessary to allow them to step away from affecting these connections... not something I'm prepared to do. To stop affecting the connections around you is to stop living. Nothing else.

Giza now has one "Epiphany card". Thanks. ^_^