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I think what some people mistake about Buddhists is that they expect them to always be passive. Instead, I think that Buddhists need to understand when and under what circumstances the best path may not be passivity. For example, I can be rather forceful in stating my opinions on this forum, but I am not so much like that in "real life".
Shaolin monks were recruited by the Ming government at least six times to participate in wars. Due to their outstanding contribution to Chinese military success, the imperial court built monuments and buildings for Shaolin Temple on numerous occasions. This also contributed to the establishment of the legitimacy of Shaolin kung fu in the national martial arts community. During the Ming Dynasty (in mid-16th century), Shaolin reached its apogee and held its position as the central place of the Caodong School of Chan Buddhism.
I'm not sure about that guy and his quote, but as to "what does it all boil down to", I'd say its the goal of trying to find common ground on Earth with others as much as possible. We're all humans and neighbors, after all. There's much that we will always have in common.
We've each always been individual and unique, with our own ideas and freedoms of choice. In previous times, it wasn't as much of a problem, and most would just "live and let live". But it's all turned around now. People want to find every reason to argue and disagree. It's highly perverse, and comes from all directions, all groups. And with that, personal review and personal accountability is also lacking.
No religion is needed to find common ground, and seek to understand each other. That's the starting point. Then, philosophy, spirituality, and possibly religion can be added, as long as not conflicting with the primary goal. High diversity and high unity is possible, regardless of what the naysayers strive for.
Someone calling themselves a Christian that means one thing to them and another thing to the person they just told they were a Christian to.
I'm sure you've noticed a whole host of beliefs foisted on you just for saying "atheist". If someone didn't know that they would have to figure out what your beliefs are by listening to you.
One thing I learned early on in life from the cult is the absolute exhilaration of knowing someone has the wrong idea of you. I guess that's one good thing that came of it. It's like a secret life .
I don't think we are talking about the same thing. I am talking about the labels people use to corral others. I guess they use them to corral themselves as well.
There are labels people apply to themselves that means something to them, their identity, their community. Then there are those who place label on others, and refuse their right to label themselves.
Labels are not the problems. People and their intention are.
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