Alexandra, about you if you permit.
I have many observations but I will make one now.
Are you not fanatic about Buddhism?
Can you take real vicious criticism of Buddhism calmly?
You may say yes, but I think you will not.
Das, thank you for your comment.
No I'm not fanatical about Buddhism - certainly not to the point fo fanaticism such as that by texasDave and all his other alter-egos.
But I am a sincere Buddhist, and I do take the teachings to heart, and the whole point of Buddhism to me is not merely to follow it, but to practise, practise and practise.
i am sincerely sorry if you feel I am fanatical, but it's not Buddhism I am fanatical about so much, as knowing that what it has taught me, works. There are aspects of Buddhism - such as some Zen Traditions and teachings, for example - that I cannot follow because they do not suit my style of practise. but they suit others. So they are neither 'wrong' nor 'right'.
Why would anyone want to "viciously criticise" anything?
What "vicious criticism" of Buddhism would you have, Das?
Criticise by all means, but constructively, not viciously. What would be the point in being confrontational for the sake of it?
If criticism is due, and justified, of course it is valid. but if someone criticises Buddhism, and I feel they are not entirely correct, or that our viewpoints differ, and I can explain why, why would I not try to put my view forward?
I have never deliberately set out to hurt, wound, insult or injure anyone with what I say. Everything I have communicated has been with the sincere desire to demonstrate the suffering of attachment and the delusion of sadness and pain, and the imprisoning trickery of Fear.
My intentions have always been well-meaning and conveyed with genuine affection.
I have always spoken with the sincere desire to convey the reality of happiness to all who have engaged with me.
if i have failed in that, then i am truly saddened.