Buddhism in Fayetteville? (school, to live in, centers)

[cunojo]

I am thinking of relocating (again) to Fayetteville from Lawrence, KS in a year or two. I lived in NWA many years ago while attending massage school and moved back to Lawrence because I couldn't deal with the in your face Christianity. While I love Lawrence because of the people/community, I surely do miss the beautiful outdoors of NWA. As I get older (a whooping 35), I am more concerned with spending time in the woods and in clean water than I am with a thriving nightlife or super-hipster atmosphere. (and contrary to what people say, Fayetteville in my eyes does not have a thriving nightlife/music scene, thankfully.) I lived in the Pacific Northwest for about 10 years and really miss clean water, hiking, etc. I find NWA to be a nice compromise and actually more accessible in terms of water temps, etc.

I guess my pertinent question is; is there much of a Buddhist community in Fayetteville? I have heard people say time and time again, "people don't throw their religious views in your face if you don't ask for it"...but my experience with Arkansas was not that at all. I have no time for that, I am not interested in discussing God with anyone. I am however interested in a community of fellow Buddhists, particularly in the Theravada tradition. I enjoy coming together for meditation, discussion, etc.

Please reply only if you're wanting to help me with my questions regarding a Buddhist community and not to tell me how it's wrong. ~Namaste

PS. Might I add, I think Fayetteville is definitely a step ahead of Lawrence in terms of sustainable city planning, which is super important to me. Congratulations!

[LadyKLO]

If they don't have a Buddhist community, perhaps you could start one there. I just googled it and found out there is a facebook page for the Buddhists in Northwest Arkansas. I don't think anyone is going to tell you it's wrong or whatever. I think anyone of any religion, faith or whatever justs wants to share what makes them happier, stronger, whatever. If you don't subscribe to that, just be polite and say no thank you. No need to argue.

here's the website I found:
http://www.nwabuddhist.info/

AYC Family of Instructors | Arkansas Yoga Center : Fayetteville, AR
one of the people here leads a meditation class

Meditation Center - South Central USA
more info for you

[cunojo]

Thanks LadyKLO: I have googled this before myself and while I end up finding a few things, when I clink on the links, they doesn't direct me anywhere. Such as, the sites I find are no longer available. I will probably just have to wait and take my chances once I get there. Lawrence doesn't have their sangha's listed online either, but they are found within the community.

As far as " I don't think anyone is going to tell you it's wrong or whatever"...have you personally ever lived in the Delta and/or south? I have, and I am here to tell you that I have experienced a lot of judgement. Thank you for your help.

[Kimballette]

Originally Posted by cunojo

I lived in NWA many years ago while attending massage school and moved back to Lawrence because I couldn't deal with the in your face Christianity.

Originally Posted by cunojo

As far as " I don't think anyone is going to tell you it's wrong or whatever"...have you personally ever lived in the Delta and/or south? I have, and I am here to tell you that I have experienced a lot of judgement.

I believe you've described your situation well here. You tried it once, and left because you didn't like it. Doing the same thing and expecting a different result is usually...unrealistic. Best wishes on your search.

[cunojo]

Right.

[LadyKLO]

Originally Posted by cunojo

Thanks LadyKLO: I have googled this before myself and while I end up finding a few things, when I clink on the links, they doesn't direct me anywhere. Such as, the sites I find are no longer available. I will probably just have to wait and take my chances once I get there. Lawrence doesn't have their sangha's listed online either, but they are found within the community.

As far as " I don't think anyone is going to tell you it's wrong or whatever"...have you personally ever lived in the Delta and/or south? I have, and I am here to tell you that I have experienced a lot of judgement. Thank you for your help.

I am from Memphis, TN. My parents are from Mississippi so I know about the south very well. I just happen to live in southern California now. I'm Christian and would never judge you for wanting to live your life anyway that you choose. I am sorry you experience such judgment in that area.

[Kimballette]

I think most people would compare NW Arkansas, particularly Fayetteville, as being more Midwestern than Southern, and certainly a different animal entirely from the Delta. I'd be surprised if there isn't a Buddhist community in Fayetteville.

[LadyKLO]

Originally Posted by Kimballette

I think most people would compare NW Arkansas, particularly Fayetteville, as being more Midwestern than Southern, and certainly a different animal entirely from the Delta. I'd be surprised if there isn't a Buddhist community in Fayetteville.

I found a facebook page for the Buddhists in NWA and there were 6 people on that page. Might not be many but they are there.

[Kimballette]

Originally Posted by LadyKLO

I found a facebook page for the Buddhists in NWA and there were 6 people on that page. Might not be many but they are there.

Only six?!? Yikes. That does surprise me.

[LadyKLO]

Only six were posted. I suspect there are more but for whatever reason didn't join the page.