What does it mean to be a Buddhist in the modern world? I enjoy meeting new people and spending time getting to know them. Sometimes, I'm a little shy tho.

I love life, and I want to experience all I can. Somehow, work gets in the way... But I still make time for swimming, reading, and enjoying time with friends.

These days, I'm working at a software company. Hey, it's a living! I'm looking forward to taking a year or two off soon. The last few years, I've really turned on to Shambhala Buddhism. I finally found a view of the world that made sense! I spend time each day practicing meditation, and I go on retreat a couple times a year.

Ever since I was a kid, I've played piano. I don't do it as much as I'd like these days, but sometimes I get together with a friend to work on some chamber stuff together.

What a sweet guy I am! Really! LOL. I'm a little shy sometimes, but I love to talk about books, philosophy, and just whatever is happening in the world.

I love the Ideas Podcast, so many great things to learn!

Books - Changes from time to time. Some time ago I loved Swimming Pool Library by Hollinghurst, now I'm enjoying Bachelor Brothers's B&B by Bill Richardson

Movies - I'm a sucker for a (gay) romance. I just watched Summer Storm, and thought it was delightful although not a romance. I like a bit of suspense, but horror is not as interesting. Bytowne films are definitely a staple. Loved Juno. I love one that screws with your mind a bit like Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind or Being John Malkovich.

Music - My musical taste has always been all over the map. I've enjoyed classical since I was a kid, and I've sung in choirs on and off since then too. When it comes to pop, I like the introspective style of Alanis, and the straight forward songs of Joni. But then again Green Day can really hit the spot. City and Colour concert was sold out and couldn't get tix. :^( Out of town when Sarah Slean is here.

Foods - I'm drawn to Indian, love a good curry. Thai curries too. Wellington Gastropub!

So, I could do without these things, but I really appreciate my meditation cushion, my piano, my iPod, the Internet, the Shambhala centre, and cool friends of course.

what's for dinner? LOL
Hmmmm - I'm thinking on this one... Guess I think about what I should be thinking about??

Sometimes I unwind by myself. Sometimes I'm off the the Shambhala centre for a weekend program. Sometimes I meet friends for dinner and hanging out.

I cried through the last 1/3 of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. Even the second time...

.... you are looking to hang out over a coffee and get to know each other.