My Experience To Visit To A Buddhist Temple

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I have always been captivated by the other religions in this world, how cultures explain what they believe in and the events around the religions they practice. While taking this class for the second time, I decided I wanted to get real and learn more about the different religions within themselves. I want to learn as much as possible about the background, where it came from, and what it stands for. I want to learn and experience everything I can find out, and to my surprise and enjoyment I found more than I had expected too. I truly had no knowledge before this class about any of the religions and was very naive and judgmental towards other religions besides the one I believe in, Christianity. This is why I chose to visit a Buddhist temple and describe my experience for this cultural report.
Buddhism is a religion that seems to have taken over in this modern day and age of society. The religion has caught on and has become extremely popular around the world, spreading like wildfire; however, it was not always been this way. Buddhism is a religion that is based off of peace and spirituality taught by the teachings of Buddha. Many who follow the teachings believe Buddhism to be more of a way of life or lifestyle choice rather a religion in itself.
This week while on spring break I decided that I would be proactive, not procrastinate and get my assignment done and out of the way so that I was not rushed at the end of the semester to get everything done. After researching online about a few of the Temples in the Tampa Bay area, I finally chose one to visit downtown. The temple I chose to visit was Wat Mongkolrataram of Florida. Many refer to the temple as Wat Tampa. The temple was approximately 20 minutes away from my house but it ...

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...s, seeking changes in life and embraced themselves in the religion and culture.
On my drive home I couldn't stop smiling and thinking about the wonderful encounters I had. It was a unique experience to say the least. During the time I was there I was able to clear my mind and feel a sense of relaxation and refreshed feeling. I must admit that the rest of the day was truly enjoyable and I wasn’t the typical unhappy person I am normally. I wish I would have done this years ago when I first became interested in the religion. Everyone was so kind and just welcomed me like family. If people say they want to go to a Christian church to make friends and be a part of God’s family, I have no doubt that people interested in the Buddhism faith would be welcomed and given the same respect and opportunities.
Despite the religion, it should be inviting and full of joy and love.

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