This month (Dec 2004) we talk to Dianne de la Cruz. Dianne teaches as a schoolteacher and tutor in Miami.

Dianne is the Treasurer for Drolma Center. She teaches in Miami and studies on the Teacher Training Program.

When and how were you first attracted to Buddhism?

I was always very open to all spiritual paths, especially Native American Shamanism. My husband, John, was into Buddhism and the more I learned about it, the more I felt that it matched my own personal beliefs. Sometimes I feel that I was born a Buddhist already, I just didn't have exposure to the terminology to explain what I felt inside. I was brought up in a born-again Christian home, church, and school and thrived from the purely spiritual aspect of that belief system. However, the dogma, practical application, and exclusivity of the religion left me disillusioned and unfulfilled. Both Shamanism and Buddhism have enabled me to grow on all levels and they help me to reach my fullest potential in this lifetime.

What made you choose to come to this Buddhist Center?

John had been attending Kadam Nick's classes in Fort Lauderdale and I could see a real change in his attitude and behavior. I was curious and interested, so I had to try it out!

Were you apprehensive about coming?

Yes. I was very apprehensive because I always get nervous before trying new things.

What did you expect?

I was not sure what to expect. I had visited another Buddhist Center before and felt pretty comfortable. I had also attended "Sacred Music, Sacred Dance" and a Buddhist Festival in Homestead with the monks from the Drepung Loseling Monastery. I had enjoyed these experiences so I thought this would be enjoyable too. Plus, I usually like the same things my husband likes!!!

What were your first impressions when you arrived?

I felt relaxed since everyone was kind, friendly, and down-to-earth. It seemed that each person was truly there to overcome problems in their lives and improve themselves. This was very refreshing to me.

What do you like best about coming here?

I look forward to the wonderful meditations and teachings, but I also love meeting and visiting with interesting people!

How would you explain the benefits of meditation to someone new?

Meditation helps quiet the mind so one can focus on what's really important. Since our everyday lives are exceedingly hectic, we need to set aside a time and a place to restore peace, tranquility, and clarity in our lives. Even meditating for a few minutes can aid in stress reduction and gaining a clearer, happier mind.

What do you feel that Buddhism can offer to the world today?

Buddhism offers us an opportunity to change the way we look at life and the experiences we encounter along life's journey. Dharma teaches us how to make the most of this lifetime and prepares us for our future lifetimes. Creating friendships in our Sangha helps us to share ideas, discuss interesting topics, and learn from each other.

What is your favorite Kadampa Buddhist quotation?

Without inner peace, outer peace is impossible. We all wish for world peace, but world peace will never be achieved unless we first establish peace within our own minds.

Geshe Kelsang Gyatso, Transform Your Life, page 11

What is your favorite Dharma movie, and why?

That's easy... "The Matrix". As a rule, I dislike violence; however, the violence in this movie is really an example of our struggle to destroy our delusions. The analogy of waking up from a deep sleep that was thought to be real-life is similar to our own spiritual awakening. It's also a good way to describe the concept of emptiness. Yes, things exist, but not the way we think they do!

What is your favorite Dharma song, and why?

"Imagine" by John Lennon sums it all up. Since everything starts in our imagination, we must first imagine things (like world peace) in order for them to become reality.

What aspect of Buddhism most inspires you?

I like the feeling of individual responsibility for my own awakening and my strong intention to help all other living beings.

What aspect of the Bodhisattva's way of life most inspires you?

I am most inspired by the wish for all living beings to be free from suffering.

What's the first thing you're going to do when you become a Buddha?

I will make a strong wish that each and every living being can experience five minutes of complete clarity and peace so they will be inspired to become a Buddha too!