Buddhism is a practical philosophy aimed at awakening people to the limitless potential and value of their own lives. Practicing Buddhism brings about a positive transformation in the depths of an individual's life, transforming fear into courage, deluded impulses into wisdom and egotism into compassion.
Buddhism begins with individuals deciding to take responsibility for their own lives, first reforming themselves and taking action to improve their immediate surroundings and relations, and then gradually extending their wisdom, courage and compassion into a wider sphere.
Buddhism originates in the teachings of Shakyamuni (Gautama Siddhartha), the historical founder of Buddhism who was born in what is now Nepal some 2,500 years ago.Shakyamuni was born a prince but renounced his royal upbringing to embark on a spiritual quest to understand how human suffering could be ended. Eventually, while in deep meditation, he experienced a profound awakening, or enlightenment -- a deep, encompassing understanding of life and human nature. Shakyamuni then traveled throughout the Indian subcontinent for nearly 40 years sharing his enlightened wisdom, promoting peace and teaching people how to unleash the great potential of their lives. He became known as the Buddha, or "awakened one." His teachings were recorded as sutras and spread throughout Asia, giving rise to a number of distinct schools of Buddhism, generally characterized by an emphasis on peace and compassion.
I interviewed a fellow employee by the name of Jenni she has been practicing Buddhism for 24 years and has lived in Missoula, MT. all of her live. She was born into a Christian family and later in life she decided that she wanted more out of religion than Christianity was providing for her. Jenni had a strong interest in Buddhism however, Missoula, MT. is a very small town and when she first began practicing Buddhism the meetings
References: 1. Christian apologetics and Research Ministry, Matthew J. Slick, 1996 2. Beliefnet. Com, What Muslims Belief. 3. Islam- MSN Encarta, Islam, 1993-2007 4. Living Religions, Sixth Edition, Fisher, Mary 2005 5. B.A. Robinson, Consultants on Religious Tolerance, 1996-2007 6. Jenni M. Jenni, Interview September 17th, 2007 7. Site Visit 1843 Bancroft, Missoula, MT. 59801 (not yet named)