This month (Feb 2004) we talk to Kelsang Zoma.

When were you first attracted to Buddhism?

I was first attracted to Buddhism a few years ago.

What made you come to this Buddhist center?

I was going through a rough period in my life and the idea of no suffering sounded like a great idea.

Were you apprehensive? What did you expect?

I was a little unsure of what to expect, I just knew in my heart that I had to try it out.

What were your first impressions?

My first impression was that everyone at the center seemed really happy and healthy.

What do you like best about coming here?

I like the very open and loving atmosphere.

How would you explain the benefits of meditation to someone?

Meditation can help you to achieve just about anything you wish to achieve. If you want to feel more peaceful it can help you do that, and if you want to attain enlightenment for the sake of others it can help you do that as well.

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

I am able to concentrate a great deal more and I am able to transform what I would have, earlier in my life, thought to be a bad situation into a not so bad experience.

What do you feel Buddhism can offer the world today?

Buddhism can offer the world anything that the world chooses to take from it. I can only tell you what it has offered me and that is the possibility of helping people to be happy.

What is your favorite Kadampa Buddhist quotation?

"You are your own best friend, you are your own worst enemy, and you are your own witness, when good and evil are done."

With what historical Kadampa practitioner do you most identify and why?

Geshe Ben Gungyal, because I feel like I am going to have to sit in my room all day, everyday, and just watch my mind if I ever hope to gain any control over it.

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

The way of cherishing others. A Bodhisattva is willing to give up even their own life if it would cause others to attain enlightenment. This is the greatest sacrifice anyone can make for the sake of others.

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

I really couldn't say because my mind is too contaminated at this point, but I know it will be good whatever I do.

What is your favorite book authored by Geshe Kelsang?

Joyful Path Of Good Fortune is my favorite.