This month (June 2003) we talk to Eris Budzinski.

When were you first attracted to Buddhism?

My first semester at New College, I took a course with Professor John Newman that introduced me to Buddhism. Initially, my response was that the Vajrayana teachings most corresponded to my own experience of reality. But when I told Professor Newman, "Okay, this is cool -- how do I get started in this Vajrayana path?", he responded that I needed an empowerment and this really depended on my karma. After that, it was another eight months before I actually went to the Kancha Center and learned that I could use the Buddhist path practically and in my daily life, even without a Tantric empowerment.

What made you come to this Buddhist Center?

After my initial interest, I noticed the center many times driving down US41. But I didn't actually get into the center until after a friend of mine introduced me to some of Geshe Kelsang Gyatso's teachings. This friend encouraged me to try some introductory meditation classes, and he assured me that there were other people my age who found it useful. Finally, I pulled myself together and realized I needed to check the Buddhist Center out.

Were you apprehensive about coming? What did you expect?

I was somewhat nervous about being the only new person, but after I entered the meditation room, the atmosphere was so cozy and relaxed. The gentle scent of incense and the quiet lights eased me into the first breathing meditation. How could I stay tense?

What were your first impressions when you arrived?

After the first five minutes of Kadam Lucy's introductory class class I realized, hey -- this is down-to-earth; the practicality of Dharma became apparent right away. I liked the idea of Buddhism being a non-proselytizing religion. The freedom to explore Buddhism without feeling pressure to accept every concept, was very innovative and appealing to me.

What do you like best about coming here?

For me, listening to qualified Dharma teachings has made all the difference in the world. Without the clear elucidations of the Kadampa teachers, I never would have been able to apply Dharma to my daily life. It has been so wonderful to meet people just like me, living and working in America, who have found the benefits of meditation applicable to daily life. Thank you Sangha!

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

The fact that so many people are wanting to fulfill happiness, yet often find the means and the ends unsatisfactory reveals the object we pursue cannot provide the lasting happiness we seek. Because a virtuous mind is a happy mind, a method to maintain that state is of utmost importance. This is the gift that Buddha has given us: meditation.

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

Every day I discover the application of Dharma becoming more and more pervasive in my daily life. At work, often times the tasks seem menial, but now I can supercharge these with a virtuous intention and make even the most redundant tasks enjoyable.

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

The world today so desperately needs Buddhadharma. This is made apparent by the culture of pleasure seeking we live in. Every person is trying to find lasting happiness, yet is left unfulfilled by the transitory pleasures of samsara. The teachings of Buddha are the only cure I have found in my pursuit of happiness. Because the meditation techniques are so practical and accessible even today as they were 2500 years ago, gives testament to the good fortune we have and the need for us as practitioners to pass this treasure on to those who desire it.

What is your favorite Kadampa Buddhist quotation?

The quote I need most right now is from Shantideva:

"Hold a strong grudge against delusion and let the battle commence! Under no circumstance surrender to delusion, whose sole task is to cause us harm."

What is your favorite Dharma movie?

Right now, I really enjoy the movie Himalaya. It is an intimate portrayal of life in the Himalayan culture. I've often found myself thinking that if only Buddhism were more widely accepted in American culture, it would be "more conducive" to Dharma practice, but thankfully this movie set me straight. Although Buddhist practices are embedded in the culture of the Himalayan people, the individuals still face many hardships due to the hostile environment, and each person must work to eradicate his own delusions, very much as in America.

What is you favorite book by Geshe Kelsang?

Meaningful to Behold strikes such a wrathful chord against my delusions, that I find it most useful against the impediment of laziness.

With which historical Kadampa Buddhist practitioner do you most identify, and why?

This question has me stumped because I would love to aspire to be like Sadaprarudita, pursuing teachings relentlessly and without discouragement, but I cannot say that I 'identify' with him, yet, still being under the influence of laziness.

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

Every action a Bodhisattva engages in has supreme meaning. I aspire to that, to making every moment a benefit to others for the kindness they have shown me.

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

When I become a Buddha I would emanate as countless Shapta offering goddesses, and eternally make offerings to holy beings for the sake of all sentient beings who have not the opportunity to please the Buddhas.