This month (January 2008) we talk to Jason Bryant.

When were you first attracted to Buddhism?

I was attracted here and there as an adolescent but had no idea of how or where to start. Everything eventually culminated in the Jamaican countryside at the age of 22.

What made you come to this Buddhist Center?

Reading Electric Kool Aid Acid Test in the hills of Jamaica, I came across the word "koan." I was unable to read much further. I felt stuck as I was determined to finally find out how to delve into Buddhism. I could think of nothing else. Upon returning to a computer in Kingston, I Google searched "Fort Lauderdale Buddhism," Drolma Center topped the list and I sent an email to inquire about classes. I thank Ianca Flores for his speedy and friendly reply.

Were you apprehensive about coming? What did you expect?

I was a little anxious about being accepted and wondering what I’d find. I expected some kind of Western caricature of an Eastern religion, a "Zen" fad.

What were your first impressions?

A nun to be and a now dear friend greeted me with warm smiles. Everyone was so loving and inviting but without being pushy. I was a newcomer and ignorant to the practice but could tell that the community really made an effort to take the teachings to heart.

What do you like best about coming here?

The same warmth that first greeted me through the door that first time is present every time I come to the center. Everyone there feels like family.

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

Meditation brings an inner calm that is unparalleled, a calm that quickly begins to pervade everyday life and affects everyone around you.

How has what you have learnt here made a difference in your everyday work and home life?

Patience, love and consideration are a much greater part of my work and home life. I didn’t even know I was capable of this and it’s exciting to know that there is still much more room for growth.

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

Buddhism can offer an open-mindedness and harmony across and within cultures, generations, races and even religions.

What is your favorite Kadampa Buddhism Saying?

"Whereas all other virtues are like plantain trees, In that they are exhausted once they bear fruit, The enduring celestial tree of bodhichitta Is not exhausted but increases by bearing fruit." -Shantideva

What is your favorite Dharma movie, and why?

I find it difficult to watch City of God and not feel compassion and renunciation.

With which historical Kadampa Buddhist practitioner do you most identify, and why?

Je Tsongkhapa. My first empowerment was that of Je Tsongkhapa and Kelsang Tenchog pointed out to me one day that I was wearing a Kappa soccer shirt and that I was therefore “Jason Kappa.” Working on it…

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

Joyous effort is always great to read about and see practiced by others in the community. We all apply effort daily to accomplish tasks we deem important. Yet reading about, training in and observing others engage in a compassionate and meaningful practice is so beautiful it inspires a joyful effort that is at times spontaneously born! My mother always reminds me that if I do what I love, I will never work a day in my life.

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

Once the blissful laughter subsides, I’ll begin repaying my teacher’s kindness in full, with joyful effort and a few laughs of course.