Won Buddhism of Manhattan

As a Buddhist who enjoys dancing Argentine tango, I’ve discovered that what is said about the dance strongly correlates to the practice. Tango is known as a ‘lifetime dance’ -- it is not something you can quickly pickup after learning just a few steps. People who have danced tango for many years still find themselves learning new things and it continues to be a challenge.

Since I started practicing Buddhism a little over ten years ago, I’ve learned that it too is a lifetime study: it takes a lot of patience to meditate and understand the philosophy. If you choose to take the path, the journey has many obstacles that range from being more compassionate in the face of ignorance or becoming more patient in a whirlwind of strife. Like tango, you must have patience and discipline.

I’ve been dancing tango in the past year and half and in the beginning I quickly learned that it’s for those who like to be challenged. You need to have patience in order to understand all of its intricate foot work and technicality. Its challenges demand discipline if you want to perform well. All of these characteristics to learn tango easily apply to Buddhist practice. I am constantly trying to be patient and diligent in my every day activities let alone on the dance floor.

For instance, last year I faced many obstacles concerning work and it put my practice to the test. I was miserable at my job and for a while was wallowing in sadness, frustration, and at times self-pity. Only in the last few months of 2008 did I start using Buddhism more whole-heartedly. I kept reminding myself to look at the bigger picture and realize that this arduous experience would ultimately teach and guide me to a better place. It was easy to be discouraged like trying a new tango step that leaves you feeling the same way. I ultimately needed to be more patient.

In the beginning of this year, I took a chance accepting a new job that paid less and was a short-term freelance position. It was in the industry I wanted and, trust me, I’m much happier. As I look towards the immediate future I realize that it will be uncertain and difficult. I have to remind myself that anything can happen and that, for better or worse, I have to be open minded. Believe it or not tango is utterly unpredictable as well. Additionally, Buddhism teaches that every choice you make you must take responsibility for it. I know that any hard ships I face will ultimately lead to greater understanding about myself. I don’t think I’d know that or take the chance I did if I wasn’t learning about Buddhism. I’m still learning! And like tango I won’t learn it quickly. I don’t know all the answers and I think that’s ok. I’ll at least know some of the steps and practice accordingly.

April, 2009