Cat P.
Yelp
Obviously, temples and other places of worship are not what people think of when they go to Yelp for reviews, but I think it's necessary to talk a little about my experience at Ekoji Buddhist Temple because it was so comforting and spiritual, and I hope that you will seek this temple if you want to learn more about Shin Buddhism, or find a sanctuary.
Two winters ago, I was going through a rough patch and feeling in need of spiritual guidance. I was raised Catholic but Buddhism's teachings on the nature of life and the existence, and ultimately acceptance, of suffering has always appealed to me. I had noticed this temple when driving, somewhat hidden, off Burke Lake Road, so I decided this was a good time to visit.
I know almost nothing about Shin Buddhism, and I still feel like it will require many subsequent visits before I can grasp the nuances of this denomination, but I know that I have never before felt so welcomed in a place of worship, except maybe the Church of the Nativity.
I came on a quiet, still, and beautiful Sunday afternoon and met a man who referred to himself as the reverend. After I toured their serene garden, I was offered a chance to enter the main hall/shrine. Here, the reverend kindly offered to chant for me. I opened a book and followed along, where the Japanese words were written phonetically, with translations beneath. The words were soothing in their meaning and their sound, and I never felt so peaceful and, strangely, loved before. You may be skeptical, but I think if you experience this for yourself and are receptive to such a generous gesture, you'll feel something inside almost sigh and cry out of joy at the same time.
I was also given the opportunity to light some incense-it was different from what i was used to at other Buddhist temples. Here I scattered ashes into a pot, which lit a flame. The reverend said that this act reminded one of the ephemeral nature of life.
The reverend told me a little about the temple, and about other visitors (students, individuals, people from other faiths, etc.) He explained that unlike other Buddhist monks, whom he referred to as priests, he was married because his being married allowed him to relate to everyday issues. That was also something I wasn't used to, but it made sense, despite being jarring at first.
I will never forget the tranquility and wholeness that resulted from my visit to Ekoji. Though my troubles did not melt away immediately, I was taught to see the bigger picture and reminded of the fleeting quality of my existence, but more importantly, the gift of kindness and willingness to inspire.
