Category Archives: Buddhism

We are moving to Switzerland!

Posted on March 27, 2017 by Jennie

In Buddhism we talk about seeking our mission for Kosen Rufu (world peace). I never questioned that my mission was in the United States. Now it appears that my mission is in Switzerland—a place where I do not speak any … Continue reading →

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My Buddhist Response to Trump’s Election

Posted on November 12, 2016 by Jennie

I was really despondent after the election—I cried for 2 days and didn’t get more than an hour of sleep. Since I work at home I was also isolated in my despair and only had Facebook to connect with. Then … Continue reading →

Posted in Buddhism, Politics | 2 Comments

Everyone has problems

Posted on January 9, 2016 by Jennie

Every human being encounters challenges and obstacles at some point in the course of a lifetime.  There is no escaping birth, old age, sickness and death in addition to the daily challenges we face living a life.  The What of … Continue reading →

Posted in Buddhism | 2 Comments

Stagnant Water

Posted on August 9, 2015 by Jennie

“Have faith that is like ceaselessly flowing water. Stagnant water becomes putrid because it stands still. The same is true of our lives: Not advancing is regressing”, said 2nd SGI President Toda. I’m feeling stagnant. Kids, husband and work are … Continue reading →

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It Could Happen to Anyone

Posted on April 28, 2012 by Jennie

I just heard an NPR piece about Michael Morton who after spending 25 years in jail for killing his wife was finally released because of DNA evidence.  He had written his wife a note saying how sad he was that … Continue reading →

Posted in Buddhism | 24 Comments

Born a Jew, Raised Christian with a Brother who was Born Muslim, and in the End I Became Buddhist

Posted on February 28, 2012 by Jennie

Last Mother’s Day I wrote about having 3 mothers here.  No, sadly there are no lesbians involved.  I’m adopted and have known this fact for as long as I can remember.  My brother is also adopted.  I was born Jewish … Continue reading →

Posted in Buddhism | 9 Comments

an even deeper blue

Posted on January 25, 2012 by Jennie

“’From the indigo, an even deeper blue.’ This passage means that, if one dyes something repeatedly in indigo, it becomes even bluer than the indigo leaves.” –Nichiren Diashonin Since I first started practicing this Buddhism 20 years ago (wow really?) … Continue reading →

Posted in Buddhism, Motherhood | 6 Comments

Determined Prayer

Posted on July 15, 2011 by Jennie

Over the past few days I have been praying for someone to get a job. Buddhist prayer isn’t about asking or making a request. Buddhist prayer is about getting in sync with the rhythm of the universe and making something … Continue reading →

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The Will to Kill

Posted on May 25, 2011 by Jennie

Violence is all over the headlines, home and abroad.  While it makes me sad, I struggle to understand the psychology behind it.  In Buddhism there is an idea of dependent origination which offers basically that we can not exist by ourselves. … Continue reading →

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You are my reflection

Posted on May 22, 2011 by Jennie

In Buddhism there is a concept that the people around us reflect our state of life.  At a simple level it works out that when you smile at someone you are likely to receive a smile in return.  On a deeper … Continue reading →

Posted in Buddhism | 2 Comments