The reality is, we’re already enlightened. It’s only as we face obstacles, stress and our own messiness that we start to forget it. This is a show about how to believe in yourself again, told by a community of Buddhists doing it everyday, and changing the world along the way. Hosted by journalist Jihii Jolly, who you might know from the popular SGI-USA podcast Buddhist Solutions for Life’s Problems, each week you’ll hear an honest conversation about real life and how to tap into your Buddhability. From relationships and dream jobs to lessons from psychology and activism, subscribe to Buddhability on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get podcasts so you never miss an episode. For more stories, tips on practicing SGI Nichiren Buddhism, and our newsletter, visit www.buddhability.org.
Listeners of Buddhability that love the show mention: sgi, nichiren buddhism, nam myoho renge kyo, centers, 40 years, buddhist, practice, challenge, encouragement, earth, incredible, world, life, thank, amazing, like, love, best, great, shakyamuni.
The Buddhability podcast is a well-rounded and impactful show that offers easily digestible content for both Buddhists and non-Buddhists alike. With its relatable and inspiring episodes, the podcast breaks down simple concepts of Buddhism and provides real-life stories to illustrate their application. This authenticity is what sets it apart from other podcasts in the genre. Personally, I find the heart of this podcast to be incredibly touching and love listening to it, especially on busy days. The hosts have done an excellent job in putting together a show that is not only informative but also engaging.
One of the best aspects of The Buddhability podcast is how well it is put together. The interviews are conducted with skillful journalism, allowing the guests to share their experiences and insights fully. The host asks profound questions that encourage guests to delve deeper into their stories, making for a rich and enlightening listening experience. Additionally, the topics covered in each episode are wide-ranging, ensuring that there is something for everyone. This diversity adds depth to the podcast and provides valuable perspectives on various aspects of life.
However, it's challenging to find any major flaws in this podcast as it consistently delivers high-quality content. The only potential downside could be that some episodes may not resonate with every listener since Buddhism can be a personal and subjective practice. However, this is a minor concern since the wide range of topics covered ensures that there is something for everyone.
In conclusion, The Buddhability podcast is a must-listen for anyone interested in Buddhism or seeking inspiration in their daily lives. It's evident that the hosts have put immense effort into creating a show that educates, uplifts, and encourages listeners to apply Buddhist principles in their own lives. Whether you're new to Buddhism or have been practicing for years, this podcast offers valuable insights and relatable stories that will deepen your understanding and inspire personal growth. Overall, I highly recommend giving The Buddhability podcast a listen.
Today we're talking about how we can live the most abundant life based on what is in our hearts rather than the material things we own. Sherman Edmiston III, of Brooklyn, shares his incredible journey to becoming an accomplished business man and the transformative perspectives he gained along the way.Watch today's episode on our YouTube Channel.Resources:“The Three Kinds of Treasure,” The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, vol. 1, pp. 538, 1027.The Teachings for Victory, vol. 1, pp. 195-96.
Yurika Watanabe grew up in Guam focused on her day-to-day and supporting her family. After a Buddhist family friend encouraged her to dream big, she started to envision a different future. Today, we discuss how setting goals and dreams help us accomplish things we hadn't imagined possible.Watch this episode on our YouTube channel.
There is a Buddhist writing that says, “Winter always turns to spring.” But when your life is in the season of winter, sometimes if can feel unending. Today's guest, Everton Carvalho, of Baton Rouge, tells the story of how his most challenging year was followed by his most joyful.Watch today's episode on our YouTube channel. Resources:The Wisdom for Creating Happiness and Peace, part 1, revised edition, p. 192.The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, vol. 1, pp. 538, 1027.
Buddhability Shorts is a series where we break down a Buddhist concept or common life challenge we've touched on in an interview. Today, we're talking about how to find a fulfilling career.To ask a question about the basics of Buddhism, you can email us at connect@buddhability.org Episode Mentioned:The Grind: Self-Mastery and Success in BusinessSeeing Beyond My Complaints and ProblemsResources:Discussions on Youth, pp. 76-78.The Wisdom for Creating Happiness and Peace, part 1, revised edition, pp. 21, 38-39.The Wisdom for Creating Happiness and Peace, part 2, revised edition, pp. 367-68.
Asking for the opinions of others can be helpful but what happens when you hear their voice louder than your own? Today's guest, Moeko Fukada Teter, of Honolulu, says it took practice to find and trust her voice. From relationships to career hurdles, chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo helped her to see her life clearly and gain self-confidence.
Truly hearing and seeing someone else can be tough. Especially if we think we're in the right or know best. Fortunately, Buddhist practice helps us to open our minds with wisdom and compassion. Today's guest, Marko Bajkovic, of Costa Mesa, shares how seeing past his ego helped him embrace Buddhism and deepen his family relationships.Watch today's episode on our YouTube Channel.
How does a mother in college become a superstar coach to students and even Olympians? Karen Dennis, of Columbus, Ohio, shares how her Buddhist practice led to a decorated coaching career. We discuss how Buddhism aligns with the mindset of winning athletes and coaches.Watch this episode on our YouTube channel. Resources“The Hero of the World,” The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, vol. 1, p. 835.The Wisdom for Creating Happiness and Peace, part 2, revised edition, p. 172
Buddhability Shorts is a series where we break down a Buddhist concept or common life challenge we've touched on in an interview. Today, we're talking about how to make difficult decisions and life without regret. To ask a question about the basics of Buddhism, you can email us at connect@buddhability.org Episode Mentioned:Your Past Decisions Don't Define Your Future Resources:Discussions on Youth, pp. 26, 362.The Wisdom for Creating Happiness and Peace, part 1, revised edition, pp. 128-29.
Buddhism teaches that all our problems are opportunities for growth. But how could heartbreak possibly make someone better at math? Alex Scheffelin, of New York, shares how he used a moment of hopelessness to propel him to becoming a Ph.D. student at Columbia University.Watch this week's episode on our YouTube Channel.
With college decisions trickling in, we're airing a rerun of a May 2024 episode about college rejections.When Ashley Park didn't get into her first choice colleges, she was stuck in New York City balancing a jam-packed schedule. Buddhism teaches that everything moves in the direction of our happiness when we chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo. With that in mind, Ashley knew there must be a reason and used her Buddhist practice to discover it. Today, we discuss how winning in every area of your life leads to your ultimate growth and happiness. References:Discussions on YouthAug. 14, 1998, World Tribune, p. 9. Cheat Sheet:03:55 Why Ashley started practicing Buddhism at age 1616:29 Tackling doubt after college rejections 35:27 Buddhism is about winning40:00 How she landed the perfect job47:37 Why her path was exactly what she needed to become happy
Chip Grossman, of Santa Monica, always thought spirituality and business were opposing goals. It wasn't until he encouraged SGI Nichiren Buddhism that he realized their deep ties. Today, Chip shares how chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo helped him develop the courage and strength to go after his goals and build unshakable happiness.View today's episode on YouTube.Resources:The New Human Revolution, vol. 9, pp. 272–73The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, vol. 1, p. 637.The New Human Revolution, vol. 5, pp. 27–28The Wisdom for Creating Happiness and Peace, part 2, revised edition, pp. 185-87.
Buddhability Shorts is a series where we break down a Buddhist concept or common life challenge we've touched on in an interview. Today, we're talking about life milestones and feeling left behind. To ask a question about the basics of Buddhism, you can email us at connect@buddhability.org Episode Mentioned:How I Beat BurnoutSeeing Beyond My Complaints and Problems Resources:Discussions on Youth, pp. 6, 121.Each Instant Contains Incredible Possibilities
Life can't always go according to plan. So, what do we do when things change? Buddhist practice helps us to be flexible and turn everything into an opportunity for deeper happiness. Today's guest, Camryn Snowden, of Oklahoma, navigated a big life change that helped her see that she could expand her capacity rather than compromising her dreams. Resources:The New Human Revolution, vol. 20, p. 89.December 2, 2022, World Tribune, p. 7.
Daily life throws a lot at us. When our state of life is low, it can be easy to get wrapped up in complaint. Buddhism teaches that caring for others helps us see beyond our problems, having a more expansive view of our lives with deeper appreciation and happiness. Today's guest, Daeseon Kim, of Queens, N.Y., shares how tying his dreams to a deeper purpose helped him move to the U.S. and advance in his career as a physical therapist.Watch this episode on Youtube. Resources:Discussions on Youth, p. 336.
What happens when you've failed at your goal… more than once? Today's guest, Ayumi Sasaki, of Detroit, had a big career goal that took two years and many attempts to accomplish. We discuss how her Buddhist practice and community helped her develop the ability to pick herself back up and keep going until she reached the finish line. Resources:Discussions on Youth, p. 24. The Wisdom for Creating Happiness and Peace, part 1, revised edition, p. 215.“Letter to Niike,” The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, vol. 1, p. 1027.
Buddhability Shorts is a series where we break down a Buddhist concept or common life challenge we've touched on in an interview. Today, we're learning how Buddhism can help us in relationships and love. To ask a question about the basics of Buddhism, you can email us at connect@buddhability.org Episode Mentioned:On Self-Love and Relationships References:Discussions on Youth, pp. 60–67.
When we want others to change, we're at the whim of our environment. One moment we're happy with their actions and another we're upset with something they said. Buddhism teaches us that when we work on our inner transformation our environment, including people, reflect that. Today's guest, Emma Grover, of Oakland, shares how developing herself helped her believe in her family. Resources:Living Buddhism, January 2025, p. 12.The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, vol 1, p. 279.Living Buddhism, January 2021, p. 14.
Buddhability Shorts is a series where we break down a Buddhist concept or common life challenge we've touched on in an interview. Today, we're talking why SGI Nichiren Buddhists chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo every day. To ask a question about the basics of Buddhism, you can email us at connect@buddhability.org Episodes Mentioned:How Connecting with People Enhanced by Self CareMastering Your Daily Rhythm References:Discussions on Youth pp. 215, 218, 220-21.
We might have a laundry list of regrets but we don't have to let them determine our lives today or tomorrow. Today's guest, Jesse Thompson of Columbus, Indiana, shares how he used his Buddhist practice to overcome shame and create the future he'd always dreamed of. You can also watch the video version of today's episode on our YouTube Channel. Resources:The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, vol. 1, pp. 536, 832.Learning From the Writings: The Hope-filled Teachings of Nichiren Daishonin, p. 107July 11, 1997, World Tribune, p. 14Discussions on Youth, pp. 5, 26
Buddhist practice empowers us to positively impact our environment. Amber Owens, of Anniston, Alabama, uncovered a deep sense of purpose in revitalizing her hometown's art culture. Today we're talking about how chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo helps her continuously return to her “why” when the path to her dream gets rocky.Today's episode is also available in video format on our YouTube Channel. ResourcesThe Wisdom for Creating Happiness and Peace, part 1, revised editionDiscussions on Youth, p. 172
In today's Short, we talk about how to do the thing we've said we would do for days, months or years. Buddhability Shorts is a series where we break down a Buddhist concept or common life challenge we've touched on in an interview. Resources:Discussions on Youth, pp. 98, 262, 395.The Wisdom for Creating Happiness and Peace, part 2, revised edition, pp. 5, 103.The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, vol 1, p. 279. Reach out to us at connect@buddhability.org to get connected with a Buddhability community near you.
We all have narratives we tell ourselves about what is possible for our lives. Today's guest, Jackie Alexander, of Chicago, shares how she overcame limiting beliefs about the kind of student and person she was. We discuss how chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo about everything from housing, to money, to graduate school led to Jackie's newfound self-confidence.Today's episode is also available in video format on our YouTube Channel.ReferencesYou Were Born to Win, p. 5The New Human Revolution, vol. 26, p. 46
Thank you for an incredible year! Today we're reflecting back on Buddhability's 2024 guests and some things we've learned from them. We can't wait to show you what we have planned for 2025. Reach out to us any time at connect@buddhability.org to get connected to a local Buddhist community or ask questions.
The journey of self-discovery can sometimes be long and winding. Ray Guida, of Columbus, Ohio, shares how he developed the compassion and courage to live as his authentic self. We discuss the ways chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo helps us face all hardships with hope and what it is like to practice SGI Nichiren Buddhism as an LGBTIQA+ person.
With so much to learn about Buddhist history, it can be hard to know where to start! This month, we're doing a short series covering Buddhist history. Today's episode is about how the Lotus Sutra and Nam-myoho-renge-kyo are practiced today.Online Articles:About Our CommunityLiving The Lotus SutraEngaged BuddhismBooks:Waking The BuddhaThe Wisdom of the Lotus Sutra SeriesReach out to us at connect@buddhability.org to get connected with a Buddhability community near you.
With so much to learn about Buddhist history, it can be hard to know where to start! This month, we're doing a short series covering Buddhist history. Today's episode focuses on the origins of Nichiren Daishonin's Buddhist philosophy and the practice of chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo.Online Articles:Buddhism Reaches the Shores of JapanThe Teachings of Nichiren DaishoninDaishonin's Life and LegacyBooks:The Records of the Orally Transmitted Teachings IntroductionThe Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, vol.1 and vol. 2Reach out to us at connect@buddhability.org to get connected with a Buddhability community near you.
With so much to learn about Buddhist history, it can be hard to know where to start! This month, we're doing a short series covering Buddhist history. Today's episode covers the early history of SGI Nichiren Buddhism.Online Articles:The Humanism of The Lotus SutraBuddhist LineageBooks:The Lotus Sutra and Its Opening and Closing SutrasThe Living BuddhaThe Wisdom of the Lotus Sutra SeriesThe Heart of The Lotus SutraReach out to us at connect@buddhability.org to get connected with a Buddhability community near you.
Today's guest, Bora Colak, is a psychiatrist in Brooklyn who struggled with depression for years after graduating from Harvard. When he started to practice Buddhism, something changed deep in his life. Bora shares the story of how he navigated depression, became a psychIatrist, and now uses Buddhism as the foundation for everything in his life. Today's episode is also available in video format on our YouTube Channel. Resources:Basics of BuddhismBuddhism Applied (Chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo)Embracing Buddhism
Self-worth is tough to cultivate when we look to others for validation. One moment we're flying high, then one harsh word sends us spiraling. Today's guest, Nikki Gonzalez, of Oakland, shares how her Buddhist practice helped her shift from a life consumed by the opinions of others to one based on a deeply held belief in her infinite worth. We talk about how Buddhist concepts helped her change the way she looks at love and relationships and determine to become the kind of person she would be proud to be with.Watch the video version of today's episode on the Buddhability YouTube channel. References:Discussions on Youth, pp. 65, 69–70, 229.
Do you feel overwhelmed and exhausted? In today's Short, we talk about how to refresh yourself when you feel pulled in too many directions. Buddhability Shorts is a series where we break down a Buddhist concept or common life challenge we've touched on in an interview. Resources:Sept. 13, 2024, World Tribune, p. 10.May 21, 2021, World Tribune, p. 3.The Wisdom for Creating Happiness and Peace, part 3, revised edition, pp. 446-48.Reach out to us at connect@buddhability.org to get connected with a Buddhability community near you.
What does it look like to have a fulfilling career? While no one can tell us the best life path for us, Buddhism offers a clear framework for understanding how to live with meaning and purpose. Today's guest, Paige Asawa of Los Angeles, shares her story of becoming an art therapist and how Buddhism helped her understand how to find a fulfilling career. Today's episode is also available as a video here. If you'd like to get connected with your local Buddhability community, contact us at connect@buddhability.orgInstagram: @buddhability
Sometimes we may wish the people around us were different. Today's guest, Brigid Perry of Boston, shares how chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo honestly about her feelings toward her family helped her make a fundamental shift in the way she views them. Today's episode is also available in video format here. References:The New Human Revolution, vol 1, pp. 173-4.Living Buddhism, June 2024, p. 5.The New Human Revolution, vol 30, Ch. 4. Cheat Sheet: 02:05 Brigid joins her sister at a Buddhist meeting07:45 Her brother comes home due to illness13:00 Wishing her family would change so life would be easier21:30 How Buddhist study helped her shift her perspective26:20 Seeing her brother in a new light33:15 Chanting to cherish her family just as they are39:10 A once unimaginable family moment If you'd like to get connected with your local Buddhability community, contact us at connect@buddhability.org Instagram: @buddhability
We have a very special episode of Buddhability! You can listen as usual or watch the video on YouTube. Today's guest, Orlando Bloom, sits down to discuss how his Buddhist practice has informed everything from his breakout role as Legolas in the Lord of the Rings to how he confronts his limitations in his new show On The Edge. Orlando shares insights he's gathered throughout his life since encountering SGI Nichiren Buddhism at age 16. He opens up about staying grounded with his sudden rise to fame, following a Buddhist example of a fulfilling life, and how he shows up to his relationships and the challenges of daily life.In this interview, we discuss:02:35 Orlando's rambunctious childhood08:46 Seeking a meaningful way of life22:15 Practicing Buddhism when he hit sudden fame29:27 Community is crucial for our growth38:20 Having a mentor in life51:00 Breaking free from self-isolation54:45 Deciding to incorporate his practice on his new TV Show1:00:15 Confronting fears1:11:00 Don't be afraid to make mistakes1:19:12 Orlando's advice for curious listeners Learn more here:Basics of BuddhismChanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyoBuddhist CommunityBuddhist Philosopher Daisaku Ikeda Connect with usReach out to us at connect@buddhability.org to check out a local Buddhability community. www.buddhability.org Instagram: @buddhabilityTikTok @buddhabilityFacebook @buddhability
Ariana Jaramillo, of Santa Cruz, started experiencing panic attacks in high school. Right around that time, she started to regularly chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo. Today, she shares how practicing SGI Nichiren Buddhism has helped her remain undefeated by anxiety and depression. We talk about what it looks like to chant daily, study Buddhism and apply it to your life. References:The New Human Revolution, vol 2, revised edition, p. 190.Unlocking the Mysteries of Birth and Death.Discussions on Youth, p. 5.If you'd like to get connected with your local Buddhability community, contact us at connect@buddhability.org Instagram: @buddhability
In today's Short, we're breaking down the Buddhist mantra Nam-myoho-renge-kyo and explaining how to chant it step-by-step. By the end of the episode, you should feel confident trying it out yourself! Helpful Resources for Chanting:How to Start Your Buddhist PracticeLearn How to Chant (Video)Ways to Enhance Your Chanting Reach out to us at connect@buddhability.org to get connected with a Buddhability community near you.
Nikita Agrawal, a recent high school graduate from Chicago, was determined to use her research to contribute to the world. Being the first author of an academic journal article is difficult but submitting it while you're applying for colleges and finishing your senior year is even harder. In today's episode, Nikita shares how chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo helped her handle painful rejections and utilize feedback to help her become a better academic. Through the process, she learned how to overcome the thoughts that told her to give up. Resources:Twenty Life-Changing Buddhist Concepts, p. 39.March 2017 Living Buddhism, p. 49. Cheat Sheet:03:35 What Nikita liked about growing up Buddhist10:28 The ambition to publish her research as a high schooler17:15 Seeing feedback as an opportunity for growth25:23 How to overcome your own negativity33:03 Advice for teenagers interested in Buddhism
There are limitless reasons why someone might try chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo! For some, it's an easy leap. For others, it might feel a bit intimidating. That's why we're bringing you the voices of several Buddhability listeners sharing why they started to chant. Helpful Resources for Chanting:How to Start Your Buddhist PracticeLearn How to Chant (Video)Ways to Enhance Your Chanting Reach out to us at connect@buddhability.org to get connected with a Buddhability community near you.
Vishvak Prakkruth encountered Buddhism in Mumbai when he was an aspiring filmmaker. As he moved to New York and Los Angeles to further his career, he found deeper meaning in his art and shifted his perspective on success.In today's episode, we talk about how chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo and studying Buddhist philosophy have helped him find meaning and purpose in his work. Reference:The New Human Revolution, revised edition, vol. 5.The Wisdom for Creating Happiness and Peace, part 1, revised edition, pp. 335-35.
Alexandria Jones, of San Diego, grew up with many examples of the power of chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo. It wasn't until becoming a young adult that she decided to test it for herself. In today's episode, Alexandria shares how chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo helped her to develop limitless strength and courage. Two things she would need when faced with the painful loss of a loved one. She shares how the Buddhist view of death deepened her appreciation of life. References:Unlocking the Mysteries of Life and Death
We're making a listener episode with your stories about starting your Buddhist practice! You can submit a voice message telling us, in a minute or less, why you started chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo. Ways to submit your voice message:1. Instagram: Send a voice message to our DMs @Buddhability2. Voicemail: Call us at (646) 883-6381 and leave a message after the tone.Please send us your story by Friday, August 2nd. We'll select a small assortment to share on an upcoming episode, so please submit only if you are comfortable having it shared on the podcast.
An 8-year-old Kimberly Cadillo struggled to find her place in a new culture, language and country. Moving from Peru to New Jersey brought many challenges, especially with self-esteem. Today we're talking about how chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo helped Kimberly develop unshakable self-worth no longer tied to external validation. As she says, though the journey might be challenging, appreciating your life is a treasure no one can take away. References:Discussions on Youth, p. 77.December 3, 2004, World Tribune, p. 8.
Buddhability Shorts is a series where we break down a Buddhist concept or common life challenge we've touched on in an interview. Today, we're talking about the Buddhist perspective on wisdom and what it means to use knowledge with wisdom. To ask a question about the basics of Buddhism, you can email us at connect@buddhability.org References:My Dear Friends in America, fourth edition, pp. 369-71.The Wisdom of the Lotus Sutra, vol. 2, p. 33.
Buddhability Shorts is a series where we break down a Buddhist concept or common life challenge we've touched on in an interview. Today, we're talking about how chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo can help us maximize every moment and use our time wisely. To ask a question about the basics of Buddhism, you can email us at connect@buddhability.org Episodes Mentioned:How To Do It All, with Dr. Gitima SharmaWhy I Appreciate My College Rejections References:The Victorious Teen, p. 28.“On Prolonging One's Life Span,” The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, vol. 1, p. 955.Unlocking the Mysteries of Birth and Death, p. 109.Jan. 1, 2016, World Tribune, p. 8.The Heart of the Lotus Sutra, p. 26.The New Human Revolution, vol. 4, revised edition, pp. 149–50.The Record of the Orally Transmitted Teachings, p. 214.My Dear Friends in America, fourth edition, p. 354.
Buddhability Shorts is a series where we break down a Buddhist concept or common life challenge we've touched on in an interview. Today, we're talking about the principle of the cherry, plum, peach and damson blossoms. To ask a question about the basics of Buddhism, you can email us at connect@buddhability.org Episodes Mentioned:Daniel: Breaking Free from Self-Imposed LimitationsMegan: Living Based on My Inherent Worth vs. People's OpinionsJoshua: Learning to Love Myself References:The Wisdom for Creating Happiness and Peace, part 1, revised edition, pp. 198.
Keiko Brunson, of Denver, entered the world with a bang and continued to challenge every perceived limitation placed on her. Today she shares how chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo gave her the confidence to live authentically and with deep gratitude for those who support her. References: “Letter to Niike,” The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, vol. 1, p.1027.“The Difficult of Sustaining Faith” WND-1 p. 471.Discussions on Youth, p. 74. Cheat Sheet:02:07 Keiko's Memories Growing up in a Buddhist family10:05 Getting accepted into college was the easy part24:40 Learning to persist in her exams33:38 Repaying her gratitude by supporting others
It isn't always easy to believe you can make a change. Immaculate Mutebi, of New York City, has challenged that disbelief many times. In today's episode, we discuss how chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo helped her use obstacles in her family, workplace and housing to deepen her conviction in the power of her life. References:On Attaining Buddhahood in This Lifetime: SGI President Ikeda's Lecture Series, p. 38.A Foundation for Your Life: Essentials of Nichiren's Writings for Young Women, p.198.Discussions on Youth, pp. 298–99. Cheat Sheet:03:58 Immaculate joins her first Buddhist meeting09:41 Chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo for an impossible family goal19:28 Feeling dis-empowered to change her work environment27:45 A Buddhist friend reminds Immaculate of her potential36:48 Finding her dream apartment
Cam Morose, a Boston school psychologist, found Buddhism at a crucial time. He was struggling with anxiety that felt impossible to challenge. In today's episode, Cam shares how Buddhism gave him the roadmap and energy to connect with others, challenge his inner critic and find deeper happiness.References:July, 2019, Living Buddhism, pp.56–57“The Strategy of the Lotus Sutra” The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, vol. 1, p. 1000. The Wisdom for Creating Happiness and Peace, part 1, revised edition, pp. 104Cheat Sheet:03:40 A friend's life state inspires Cam to try chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo08:57 His anxiety reaches a breaking point17:16 How connecting with others made him rethink self-care29:00 Finding purpose in his career based on his struggles40:58 A clear guide for living a happy and fulfilling life
Buddhability Short: How to Find Your Power in a Chaotic WorldBuddhability Shorts is a series where we break down a Buddhist concept or common life challenge we've touched on in an interview. Today, we're talking about how Buddhist practice empowers us to move the world in a positive direction. To ask a question about the basics of Buddhism, you can email us at connect@buddhability.org Episodes Referenced:Abe: “How to make progress, even when you can't see eye to eye”Dori: “How to turn your circumstances into your purpose” References:“King Rinda,” The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, vol. 1, p. 989. A Piece of Mirror and Other Essays, pp. 98–99. Sept. 28, 2007, World Tribune, p. 2.
Daylen Heidt, of Houston, grew up labeled as a “bad kid.” Everything changed when they started practicing Buddhism just over a year ago. Buddhism teaches that we're the protagonists of our lives and have the power to write, perform and direct our dream script. Today, Daylen shares their journey from being directionless and hopeless to living with courage and purpose. Reference:The Wisdom for Creating Happiness and Peace, part 2, revised edition, pp. 165–66 Cheat Sheet:06:40 Daylen finds Buddhism at a time of uncertainty11:05 Connecting with their local Buddhist community18:27 Finding the courage to repair relationships24:25 Defying their “bad student” label30:40 Seeing yourself as the protagonist of your life36:30 How Buddhism has changed their life
When Ashley Park didn't get into the colleges she applied to, she was stuck in New York City balancing a jam-packed schedule. Buddhism teaches that everything moves in the direction of our happiness when we chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo. With that in mind, Ashley knew there must be a reason and used her Buddhist practice to discover it. Today, we discuss how winning in every area of your life leads to your ultimate growth and happiness. References:Discussions on YouthAug. 14, 1998, World Tribune, p. 9. Cheat Sheet:03:55 Why Ashley started practicing Buddhism at age 1616:29 Tackling doubt after college rejections 35:27 Buddhism is about winning40:00 How she landed the perfect job47:37 Why her path was exactly what she needed to become happy
Buddhism teaches us that our lives are precious just as they are. This can be hard to believe if we struggle with self-criticism and strive for flawlessness. Fortunately, each time we chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, we tap into our limitless wisdom, courage, and compassion and challenge our inner critic head-on. Today, Clark Harrell, of Seattle, Washington, shares how fighting perfectionism helped him enjoy his Buddhist practice, musical pursuits and everyday life. References: Discussions on Youth, p. 171The Wisdom for Creating Happiness and Peace, part 1, revised edition, p. 102 Cheat Sheet:10:10 Clark discovers Buddhism through jazz15:45 First steps in Buddhist practice25:21 Placing self-worth in achievements29:43 Getting support from his Buddhist community41:09 Chanting without self-criticism54:18 Community is the key to never giving up
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