Help for a newbie :)

jonmor

Hi, I've only recently been introduced to Buddhism, mainly through the books of his holiness the Dahlia Lama, and am looking for somewhere to talk/meditate/pray with like minded people but reading through the threads here I have noticed there are no temples in Ireland and there are only centres or courses available but most of these seem to require you to pay certain amount each month.

While I have no problems with people paying for somewhere to practice their beliefs, I'm not a big fan of the idea. I realise Buddhists would receive no funding and need people to help out but I neither have the money nor want to pay to learn.

Is there anywhere were we can meet people or learn more about the teachings without having to bring our wallets?

Thanks
Jon

Goodshape

Where abouts are you in the country?

I know the Shambhala Buddhist Centre in Dublin has regular open nights every Wednesday, ideal for new comers (instruction is available), and also 'Sunday Afternoon Sitting' sessions on the first Sunday of each month.

There's a suggested donation of €5 for each of these but no 'fee' as such.

I believe you'll find similar initiatives throughout the country... and of course various courses, classes and retreats you can do which do tend to cost a bit of money.

Aside from that, I've personally found that reading and studying on your own time and taking inspiration and teaching from the people you happen across on your travels has served me well enough ...but then I've never had too much desire to get absorbed in the 'religious' or 'lifestyle choice' side of things. Although I would quite like to go on a retreat at some point, time and income permitting.

jonmor

Thanks for the quick reply.

I am in Dublin and could definitely make it into the Shambhala centre, I'll look at their website later this evening and check them out.

I'm not into getting too wrapped up in lifestyle / religious aspects either but I would definitely like to learn a lot more and talk with other people about it, although I've found reading quite good it would be nice to discuss Buddhist philosophies with other like minded people

The main reason I would rather go to a temple or centre is so I could meditate without my life interrupting, as I find it hard to relax at home with so many distractions, if that makes sense.

yomchi

I find it hard to relax at home with so many distractions, if that makes sense

Makes perfect sense, when you find your 'groove' so to speak with meditation practice those distractions will no longer be distracting as you learn to just acknowledge their presence.
Good luck with your study!