I have been practising Buddhism for a number of years now and studied under several different teachers in both the Thai Forest tradition and the Zen tradition. I don't consider myself either Theravada or Mahayana, or anything really. I am more at home in the early teachings of the Buddha as recorded in the Pali canon, but I don't agree with everything recorded there.
I am also a student at The Open University studying Computer Science. Although due to health problems I am not sure I will be able to find employment after, as I am having cognitive difficulties, especially with my memory.
I like writing, photography and painting. I find these activities cathartic. I enjoy writing about the dhamma in particular, as that is where my main interest lies.
I am keen to make it all the way to full Buddhist enlightenment (Arahant) in this lifetime if possible, but have no plans on becoming a monk. I will try to get there as a lay follower. I am not sure I am well suited to the monastic lifestyle, as I like the freedom to make my own choices, but I very much respect and admire the monastic community and feel great gratitude for all I have learnt from them, for their friendship and for their generosity in what they have shared with me.
If you like my work and want to help support me, you can buy me a coffee by visiting the link below:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/sorrowless
May you be safe, well, peaceful, and happy.
And free from sorrow.
Asoka
P.S. Asoka is my given dhamma name and means 'Sorrowless'
You can read my more polished writing on medium, by visiting the link below:
https://medium.com/@richiecuthbertsonTake care
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