It began with Buddhism

It’s been a couple of weeks since I last posted as I just wanted to enjoy being in the moment, especially when spending time with someone who I love. What else can be more important when life is going well? During the time though, I thought about how much improvement I’ve seen within myself since I began my Stoic journey back in October, which is my birth month. It was also the last time I felt very down on myself to the point when I needed to change, or else I would keep going down a depressing path. Right around the same time, I thought about going to a Buddhist retreat at a monastery (that was founded by Thich Nhat Hanh) right on my birthday weekend to further have a clearer perspective of my life and my being. I’ve practiced meditation and been familiar with some parts of Buddhism since college. Out of all the religions, I’ve connected with Buddhism the most. Even though Stocisim resonates with me more and is the practice that really switched something in me, Buddhism was what first started me to reevaluate myself years ago. What’s better is that I can see both philosophies coinciding with one another, despite originating from two different global regions. At the retreat, I eagerly got up earlier than I would ever have to attend all the meditations and talks throughout the weekend, making the most of what I would learn. I felt so still and at peace, not to mention how supported I felt by everyone who attended for different reasons but also took a break from the noise of the world to reflect within themselves. Finding my Stoic practice and going to a Buddhist retreat all certainly resembled a kind of rebirth. The two philosophies will stay with me forever. I also have my boyfriend to thank for sharing with me some Buddhist teachings he has learned, as they have heavily influenced him and his life. Perhaps in the end, we all need to go back to philosophy to make a change. 🦁⚖️🦉🧋