When ever Buddhism has taken root in a new land, there has been a certain variation in the style in which it is observed. The Buddha himself taught differently according to the place, the occasion and the situation of those who were listening to him.
~His Holiness The 14th Dalai Lama
James's coment: I think that this is a great quote and teaching to keep in mind as Buddhism adapts and takes hold in the west. There are some Buddhists who believe that American Buddhism is not real Buddhism but the Dalai Lama rejects this idea. Stating that the very nature of Buddhism and its success is it's ability to be rather flexible to new cultures and traditions.
This is also one of the main reasons to me that Buddhism is so soft, compassionate and beautiful.
-Peace to all beings-
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