I began learning and reading about Buddhism and the Dhamma when I was a child and used to try and practice meditation. I spent a summer in Hawaii with family, some of whom were Buddhists from the Nichiren Shoshu lineage attending Byodo-in temple. I learned the Odaimoku mantra. In 2016 I moved to a Chicago and found the Soto Zen sangha, Ancient Dragon Gate, and learned about Dogen and shikantaza. I did a full day sesshin (retreat). During that intense period of practice "something" happened and gave me unique experiences and a new perception. The effects lasted about two days, but it was powerful and showed me that there was something to this.
While I am used to the Zen branch of Buddhism, I have some familiarity with other ways. I found Dhammarato through interviews some years ago and like his direct and pragmatic way of speaking. His current online platform seems to work well so I have joined that sangha.
