Okay Another Religious Issue~~ About Buddhism And Reincarnation

I believe we reincarnate in some form or level... We are made of energy, every cell in our body is pure energy as is the whole universe. I don't think that when we die we go someplace else, but our energy shifts into something else or to another level.... Gosh, I could go on all night about this subject...=)

Pye, you are so funny.....you really like to kick it up a notch, haha.

I have believed in reincarnation forever it seems, as I believe in ghosts. I think when you die, you just rest for a while, and then you are reincarnated to learn more lessons.

I guess we'll all figure it out someday when everyone meets everyone else in the thereafter, haha.....next bunch in, next bunch out. It doesn't really rattle my nails because who knows, I might be a Buddhist in my next life along with you.......see ya!

Hi Pyewacket,
Nice to know that you have read a lot of religions and are following your heart. If I were you, it wouldn't 'rattle my nails' if somebody suggested that. I would just consider that plain ignorance/arrogance for somebody to announce something that he sure does not know completely about. In fact, all I would do is give him one sarcastic smile and let time and life teach him through experience. For all we know, he might not have understood what the discussion was about or even properly about Buddhism. That is his fault and not yours. And I agree with you that this is the first time I have heard about a Buddhist(are you sure he was one?) talking like this.

Wouldn't that be one of those discussions where even though you disagree with the person you should still respect them for their beliefs and opinions? Are you saying if someone's beliefs conflict with yours they are wrong?
I don't know about re-incarnation but if someone believes that there is a criteria to achieve it, I will listen and take it on board. I grew up believing that as a Catholic, if I was a good person I would go to heaven and that Non-Catholics were siners and heretics and pagans and they would all go to hell. This is what the nuns and my parents taught me...I was a child and I believed them. I now know that it's not true and I'm more troubled by the fact that they all lied than to try and find the truth. But I like to listen to what people have to say in an effort to learn how others think and what their beliefs are.

I describe myself as a mixed bag. While on one hand I'm a christian and believe the Bible is God's word -- that I'm saved by grace and accept Jesus Christ as my lord and savior, I don't deny the possibility of reincarnation.

I had a significant other who told me he remembered being an "entity" before he was born, and that he chose his parents. He was not one to be overly dramatic or tell outlandish stories. I believed him then and still believe in that possibility.

I read a book about a similar concept. I don't recall the name of the book or author, but it described life in the spirit world -- that we're sparks of light, continuing to learn and experience personal growth.

I don't think reincarnation is limited to those who obtain Buddhahood.