walsh_zack

My name is Zack. I am a 23 year-old male currently working as a foreign English teacher in Nanjing, China. I have come to realize that I wish to completely devote myself to the Tao. I have educated myself upon what is required, and I have attempted to apply those teachings to my worldly life as best I can. Now, I wish to make an even greater commitment by seeking membership into a monastic community. I have done some preliminary research and I've even taken a pilgrimage to Wudang mountain seeking advice. Thus far, I have heard it is not possible to be a monk and a foreigner in mainland China, where I much prefer to study. However, since my spiritual drive is far greater than any obstacle, I have realigned myself according to those opportunities that present themselves. The monastery which seems the closest to satisfying my needs at present is Foguangshan in Taiwan, which teaches humanistic Buddhism, not Taoism. At this point in my search, my hope is that I can find some guidance here. I am open to any suggestions even those outside the confines of China or Taoism (if necessary). If you know anyone or if you have any information that could help me in ANY WAY, please post. I humbly thank you. Respectfully, Zack Walsh

My name is Zack. I am a 23 year-old male currently working as a foreign English teacher in Nanjing, China. I have come to realize that I wish to completely devote myself to the Tao. I have educated myself upon what is required, and I have attempted to apply those teachings to my worldly life as best I can. Now, I wish to make an even greater commitment by seeking membership into a monastic community. I have done some preliminary research and I've even taken a pilgrimage to Wudang mountain seeking advice. Thus far, I have heard it is not possible to be a monk and a foreigner in mainland China, where I much prefer to study. However, since my spiritual drive is far greater than any obstacle, I have realigned myself according to those opportunities that present themselves. The monastery which seems the closest to satisfying my needs at present is Foguangshan in Taiwan, which teaches humanistic Buddhism, not Taoism. At this point in my search, my hope is that I can find some guidance here. I am open to any suggestions even those outside the confines of China or Taoism (if necessary). If you know anyone or if you have any information that could help me in ANY WAY, please post. I humbly thank you. Respectfully, Zack Walsh