Finding My Religion

What is my religion? Most people would have a quick, distinct answer. But I am having a hard time stating just one belief. I still consider myself Christian, and believe that Jesus will be there welcoming me in heaven. But I am having problems with some of the bible beliefs, and all the hidden information and outlook on women. Things that were changed by priests, not by God. I can see why people start studying Buddhism. It is a very simplistic religion based on being a good person and doing good things and helping people out. I also believe in some of the Wiccan beliefs, such as their connection with nature, and natural healing. I believe in Chi, Chakras, and meditation. I believe in reincarnation. If I could only find a religion that could combine all of these beliefs, I would be ecstatic. But for now I have to take time to look over each one, and take out of them what I want. So today I am learning more on Buddhism and have included the beliefs and meanings for all to enjoy. Core beliefs of Buddhism: The Three Trainings or Practices: These three consist of: Sila: Virtue, good conduct, morality. This is based on two fundamental principles: The principle of equality: that all living entities are equal. The principle of reciprocity: This is the "Golden Rule" inChristianity -- to do onto others as you would wish them do onto you. It is found in all major religions. Samadhi: Concentration, meditation, mental development. Developing one's mind is the path to wisdom which in turn leads to personal freedom. Mental development also strengthens and controls our mind; this helps us maintain good conduct. Prajna: Discernment, insight, wisdom, enlightenment. This is the real heart of Buddhism. Wisdom will emerge if your mind is pure and calm. The Four Noble Truths: The Buddha's Four Noble Truths explore human suffering. They may be described (somewhat simplistically) as: Dukkha: Suffering exists: (Suffering is real and and almost universal. Suffering has many causes: loss, sickness, pain, failure, the impermanence of pleasure.) Samudaya: There is a cause for suffering. (It is the desire to have and control things. It can take many forms: craving of sensual pleasures; the desire for fame; the desire to avoid unpleasant sensations, like fear, anger or jealousy.) Nirodha: There is an end to suffering. (Suffering ceases with the final liberation of Nirvana (a.k.a. Heaven). The mind experiences complete freedom, liberation and non-attachment. It lets go of any desire or craving.) Magga: In order to end suffering, you must follow the Eightfold Path. The Five Precepts: Do not kill. This is sometimes translated as "not harming" or an absence of violence. Do not steal. This is generally interpreted as including the avoidance of fraud and economic exploitation. Do not lie. This is sometimes interpreted as including name calling, gossip, etc. Do not misuse sex. For monks and nuns, this means any departure from complete celibacy. For the laity, adultery is forbidden, along with any sexual harassment or exploitation, including that within marriage. The Buddha did not discuss consensual premarital sex within a committed relationship; Buddhist traditions differ on this. Do not consume alcohol or other drugs. The main concern here is that intoxicants cloud the mind. Some have included as a drug other methods of divorcing ourselves from reality -- e.g. movies, television, the Internet. The Buddha's Eightfold Path consists of: Panna: Discernment, wisdom: 1) Samma ditthi Right Understanding of the Four Noble Truths 2) Samma sankappa: Right thinking; following the right path in life Sila: Virtue, morality: 3) Samma vaca: Right speech: no lying, criticism, condemning, gossip, harsh language 4) Samma kammanta Right conduct by following the Five Precepts 5) Samma ajiva: Right livelihood; support yourself without harming others Samadhi: Concentration, meditation: 6) Samma vayama Right Effort: promote good thoughts; conquer evil thoughts 7) Samma sati Right Mindfulness: Become aware of your body, mind and feelings 8) Samma samadhi Right Concentration: Meditate to achieve a higher state of consciousness