What defines Western Buddhism?

The defining characteristic of the emerging Western Buddhism is a basic pragmatism, rather than an adherence to some philosophical system or sectarian viewpoint. What most characterizes the One Dharma of the West is an allegiance to a very simple question: What works? What works to free the mind from suffering? What works to accomplish the heart of compassion? What works to awaken us from the dream states of our ignorance?

- Joseph Goldstein, "One Dharma"
http://www.tricycle.com/feature/one-dharma

No Exits

Monastic life isn’t tough because you have to work hard all day long. It isn’t tough because you don’t have any time for yourself. It isn’t tough because there is no time to practice. It’s tough because there are no exits and you come up so close to yourself.”

—“No Place to Hide” by Pema Chödrön

Community Media - Interactive World: If the World were a Global Village ...

Community Media - Interactive World: If the World were a Global Village ...