So, Tell Me, What Is Buddhism?

Editor’s note: This article by Vista Buddhist Temple President Ricky Schlesinger first appeared in the EVERYDAY BUDDHIST blog at everydaybuddhist.org and is being reprinted with his permission.

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Most of my lifelong friends and my family are not Buddhist, but they all know I am. Some of my local friends have joined me at a Vista Buddhist Temple service. They asked for a book to read.  And most of them, at one point have asked me, “So tell me, what is Buddhism”? 

I feel like I am as articulate as the next guy and have spent most my career communicating concepts (marketing and sales).  But I have a very hard time delivering a simple response to “What is Buddhism”? Almost always, I find my answer a bit hollow and inadequate. Kind of frustrating, kind of embarrassing!

I am committed to Buddhism, and I really believe that if my friends experienced what I have experienced, they would want to jump in and get involved, but I just can’t deliver an elevator pitch explanation.  

I have tried the … “It’s about wisdom and compassion” angle; that doesn’t quite get there. Lots of belief systems involve wisdom and compassion. I have tried the Four Noble Truths approach, but talking about “suffering” is like a cold shower.  I can never remember all eight of the Eightfold Path; that’s awkward. They always want to talk about reincarnation, but that is not really my Buddhist driver. Maybe “Just Do It” is really a Buddhist message, and I could use that as my “go to” response.  But I am afraid of being sued by Nike.

So here is my conclusion, it’s twofold. One, I have an increasing respect for our Buddhist leaders and authors who can provide a succinct answer to “What is Buddhism” off the cuff.  Two, and most important, keep practicing, (even though it sounds like a golf tip).  Buddhism is like a flower blooming in slow motion. It unfolds to you as your understanding matures.  

So now I am gratefully engaged in the Three Treasures: Buddha, Dharma, Sangha (I can retain those three). And I try to remain present in every moment. I study a little, and I look for the Dharma wherever and whenever it presents itself.