My first steps chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo

My first steps chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo

Author: SGI-USA February 15, 2022 Duration: 52:43

On this episode, we’re speaking with Nikolas Spayne, of Chicago, who started chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo just last year, when he remembered having heard about Buddhism and decided to look it up. Like many of us, the stress of the pandemic, the constant stream of negative news and big questions about his own life and future had him seeking a fresh path forward. 

Today he walks us step-by-step through his first year of Buddhist practice. 

CHEAT SHEET

00:54 How Nikolas encountered Buddhism
8:02 Why he decided to start chanting on his own
10:41 How his mornings transformed when he started chanting
15:13 His approach to goal-setting
17:37 When he decided to reach out to the Buddhist community
21:18 What his first Buddhist meeting was like
29:39 How bringing all three elements of Buddhist practice together impacted his life
34:38 The biggest change he has experienced
38:12 His favorite Buddhist concepts
42:20 How he developed a sense of mission
47:57 How he defines his Buddhability
50:19 Advice for anyone new to chanting


References:

  • You Were Born to Win, pp. 10-12

It’s easy to lose sight of our own strength when life gets complicated, but what if that inherent clarity and capability never actually left? Buddhability explores that very idea through the lived experiences of everyday people. Host Cassidy Bradford guides genuine conversations with a community of practicing Buddhists from SGI-USA, who share how they navigate real-world challenges. You’ll hear personal stories that touch on everything from mental resilience and physical well-being to navigating career shifts and personal relationships. This isn’t about abstract theory; it’s a practical look at applying Buddhist principles to uncover a more confident and compassionate way of living. Each episode of the podcast feels like a thoughtful dialogue, focusing on how to reconnect with that inner resourcefulness-your Buddhability-amidst the stress and clutter of modern life. The discussions are grounded in the belief that enlightenment isn’t a distant goal, but a potential we can all access right now to improve our own lives and positively impact the world around us. Tune in for honest reflections and discover how this perspective can transform the ordinary into something extraordinary.
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