Question
Hello, Master. I am an "apprentice" Buddhist (I have not yet taken refuge), drawn to Zen, currently meditating only in the form known as mindfulness (and moving to zazen will not be easy given the severe osteoarthritis in my knees—but that is another subject). I have visited quite a few blogs and discussion forums about Buddhism, Zen and otherwise, and have always ended up being kicked out. Why? I am rather "right-wing," a supporter of national sovereignty, a patriot, etc. I do not feel extremist, but in the eyes of what seems to me a majority of Western neo-Buddhists (bourgeois bohemian, Care Bear types, all the way left!), I am a fascist... A sad shortcut taken by champions of groupthink hiding behind masks of wisdom. Am I the only one in this situation? Do I have no place in Buddhism? And I am not even talking about joining a sangha... Thank you in advance.
Laurent 56
Answer from Master Kosen
No, you are not the only one.
Kosen