This month (August 2008) we talk to John Vandersea.

When were you first attracted to Buddhism?

When I was living in Boulder, Colorado, I saw a slide show in 2000 from a climber that went to a remote part of Tibet. He said the people there lived in a harsh environment, yet were happy. He said they practiced Buddhism. I was intrigued and began studying.

What made you come to this Buddhist Center?

I began going to a class in Tampa and was trying to learn how to meditate. The interesting thing was that I really enjoyed the teachings since they were so practical and could be used in daily life. I then attended a day course at the Parbawatiya Center.

Were you apprehensive about coming? What did you expect?

I was apprehensive, but was continually searching for something that I did not know. I expected the occasion to be a bit formal. But everyone was very relaxed and seemed at peace. I continued to practice and received encouragement from those in my meditation class.

What were your first impressions?

When I moved from Tampa to North Palm Beach, I immediately started attending the meditation class in North Palm Beach on Friday evenings. I was simply asked to give it a try and implement the teachings in my daily life. I found myself coming back with more questions and received help from several members and Kadam Nick as well. This class became the highlight of my week!

What do you like best about coming here?

I love listening to the teachings and discussions with other members. When people are peaceful and calm, it has an effect on everyone else. Visiting the center always puts me in a more positive state of mind.

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

Meditation has innumerable effects of canceling out anxiety, frustration, worries, etc. The beauty of meditation is that it does work and sets the tone in a positive way, every day.

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

Work and home life used to be a self-centered daily practice. By using daily meditation practices and continually watching my mind, there is an overriding calm and peace that has filtered into daily work and home life.

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

Society today is very hectic and fast paced. Peaceful minds are in great demand in the world. You would be surprised how one peaceful person can have an effect on a group, a city, a country, or the world. Developing inner peace is such an altruistic and beneficial way to change the world.

What is your favorite Kadampa Buddhism Saying?

"May I become a protector for the protectorless
A guide for those who travel on the road,
And, for those who wish to cross the water,
May I become an island for those seeking dry land,
A lamp for those needing light,
A place of rest for those who desire one,
And a servant for those needing service."
Shantideva

What is your favorite Dharma movie, and why?

Waking Life, this movie explores the dream like nature of our reality.

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

The Bodhisattva’s way of life is like a peaceful warrior, destroying delusions to ultimately benefit those suffering in the world.

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

Assist others in achieving true inner peace and freedom from suffering.