Communication Among Cultures: Americans and Buddhism

Communication Among Cultures
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Introduction
There has been a great increase in Buddhism over the past years, a phenomenon that cannot be ignored. For a very long time, there has been neglect in studies on this unique and intriguing culture. On choosing to observe this wonderful culture, I thought that it is time that modern ethnography focuses on it and enlighten people on its culture and way of life. With the significant increase of Buddhist followers over the past years, understanding their sources of inspiration makes studying Buddhism an interesting process.
I conducted participant observation with a group of Buddhists who were meditating. The group, follows Tick Nat Hattan’s Buddhist ideologies. According to Tick’s book, meditation is not all about strict rules and people could meditate on chairs or even walk while meditating. During the session, I learned that there are unique perspectives in the American Buddhism that are non-religious and therapeutic. It’s the use of Buddha practices to improve oneself like walking while meditating and bowing to each other. After the meditation session ended, they did not only bow to the Buddha statue but to each other.
This unique and dynamic ritual was in line with the universal view that Americans are proponents of equality and individuality. In the mediation rooms, I observed that additional cushions were provided for people to sit on, a unique element. Practicing meditating while walking was used to help American beginners learn how to meditate. There was distinct silence, to help with concentration when meditating. We were advised to focus on our breath and avoid any thoughts while walking.
After reading Tick Hattan’s words out loud, meditation began, but we sat on chairs and walked for an hour. We did not sit on the floor, the traditional meditation pose. The words were appreciating life and it was read out in a calm tone and simple sentences. After the session, there is a myriad of activities that take place. People have tea and interact, there is chanting and dancing. The two hours activity was the most enjoyable moment. A lady led the chanting and the dance session, she said that taking part in the activities was good for the mind as it helped in cleaning it.
Cultural aspects observed
Unlike the common stereotypes of how Buddhist are suppose to live like monks, wearing swaddling clothes the American Buddhism has evolved and morphed and become distinct this is most likely influenced by the environment. I observed that there are some norms that Buddhists hold dear to their hearts. Respect is a core value of the Buddhist irrespective of the social class, gender or race. I was astounded when they bowed at me too after the mediation.
The respect can be seen on how they attend to the visitors and accorded the warmth was also heartwarming. Comparing the handling of strangers by the Buddhist with how in the modern world, people relate with strangers I realized that these virtues are instilled through the teachings and practices. The desire of Americans to find spiritual and mental fulfillment has seen to these practices and rituals impact positively on the ever-changing and changing values and li...