This month (May 2008) we talk to Julie Scofield.

Julie is a student at Vajrapani Buddhist Center in Orlando and teaches introductory Buddhist meditation classes in Orange City. She works as a Historic Preservation Planner iun her daily life.

When were you first attracted to Buddhism?

I became interested in Buddhism and meditation while attending college.

What made you come to this Buddhist Center?

I first came to the Center at a time when several aspects of my life—positive elements that I’d felt deep commitment toward and had carefully nurtured—just fell apart. I was looking for ways to cope and to find meaning.

Were you apprehensive about coming? What did you expect?

I was excited about the new experience, but also a little apprehensive. I didn’t sit in the front row!! I’m not sure what I thought a Buddhist meditation teacher would be like, but I didn’t expect him to be so amusing and wear a blackberry! I honestly was not prepared for such great kindness.

What were your first impressions?

At that time, our classes were held in a garage, a rather small space, but there was a beautiful shrine, and incense and candles burning. Still, it was a garage, and we sat in those white plastic lawn chairs. A friendly cat wandered in to sit with us. Quite an unusual setting, but it felt incredibly peaceful. The teacher put everyone at ease and the other students were so welcoming. I came with a friend, and we drove an hour each way, but both of us immediately knew we wanted to come back.

What do you like best about coming here?

For me it’s like coming in on a very cold night to a cheerful room with a fire going and your best friends to greet you. As soon as I open the door, I feel I’ve reached a place where the only thing that matters is limitless potential—my own, and that of everyone I meet. It’s so inspiring.

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

Starting a meditation practice can be a hopeful scheme to invite a few moments of peace and clarity into your life, quickly followed by the delight in seeing that each day a bit more of each shows up to shape your life and your relationships. This peaceful and clear mind leads to a profound sense of comfort and confidence.

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

Both my home and work life have been improved and are more productive and calmer. I have two teenage sons, and studying and practicing Dharma has definitely helped me to bring a greater level of wisdom and compassion to my parenting efforts. I definitely wouldn’t want to have to do-over the last few years without these benefits!

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

Peace and freedom.

What is your favorite Kadampa Buddhism Saying?

“Always rely on a happy mind alone.”

What is your favorite Dharma movie, and why?

Lars and the Real Girl It’s a sweet and funny story about a lonely young man (Lars) who believes that a life-size inflatable doll (Bianca) is real. The no-nonsense town folk play along, because they care for Lars, inviting Bianca to parties, giving her rides to her volunteer job, etc. The kindness that they show toward him and his “girlfriend” transforms them all. If you wish to view it in this way, the story challenges our concept of reality and demonstrates the power of compassion.

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

Freedom from self-cherishing!

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

Work with perfect effectiveness to achieve peace on earth.