In all of his teachings—given over 40 years—the Buddha never commanded his followers to do anything.

The seed of a nonvirtuous action causes an unfortunate rebirth, which can include birth as an animal of any type—mammal, bird, reptile, or insect.

The law of karma—the law of cause and result—has many facets, and it takes much study and reflection to fully appreciate it.

Many people resonate with certain aspects of Buddha's teachings and adopt Buddhist practices without abandoning their previous religious or spiritual identifications or declaring themselves to be Buddhist.  

However, they are two distinctly different activities. While forgiveness is prized across spiritual traditions—and in psychology as well—forgetting may not be wise.

Generally speaking, the lifestyle of a Buddhist nun is simple and disciplined, involving study, meditation, and service. As we mature into our ordination, this lifestyle makes our lives rich with meaning and joy.