In our newest episode, we delve into the intricate journey of spiritual identity with our special guest, Ray Choo, director and producer of Waking Up 2050 ?. From his personal experiences to the broader concepts of Buddhism, we unravel the significance of committing to the path of Dhamma, becoming conscious agents of wisdom and compassion for the benefit of oneself and others, and the evolving perceptions of religion and spirituality in today's world ☸️.

? Ray Choo Hongrui was born and raised in Singapore. He studied Communications Design in Berlin, Germany, at HTW Berlin-University of Applied Sciences where he had the opportunity to try his hand at filmmaking and storytelling and experience a world where Buddhism, its meanings and functions are not established. The conversation in the West is just gaining momentum and presence. In trying to contribute to this dialogue, Ray redefined for himself what it actually means, to walk the path of Dharma. Through WAKING UP 2050, he met his teacher Lopen Pema Deki with whom he took his precepts and continues to study the Dharma. Ray currently works and resides in Berlin as a motion designer.

Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction
00:21 - Waking Up 2050
01:08 - What it means to Identify as a Buddhist
06:19 - Practicing for the Benefit of Oneself and Others
11:38 - What Defines a Good Buddhist?
13:00 - The Practical Application of Buddhism
15:02 - Navigating Social Perceptions
19:44 - Religion vs. Spirituality from an Academic Standpoint
24:23 - The Beauty of the Buddhist Journey
26:13 - From Identification to Letting Go
27:32 - Final Advice: Walking the Path of True Freedom

Resources:
? Thus Have I Seen (THIS) Buddhist Film Festival 2023 https://thisfilmfest.com/2023/ 
? Waking Up 2050 https://thisfilmfest.com/2023/films/waking-up-2050/

Special thanks to our sponsors:
Buddhist Youth Network, Lim Soon Kiat, Alvin Chan, Tan Key Seng, Soh Hwee Hoon, Geraldine Tay, Venerable You Guang, Wilson Ng, Diga, Joyce, Tan Jia Yee, Joanne, Suñña, Shuo Mei, Arif, Bernice, Wee Teck, Andrew Yam, Kan Rong Hui, Wei Li Quek, Shirley Shen, Ezra, Joanne Chan, Hsien Li Siaw, Gillian Ang, Wang Shiow Mei, Ong Chye Chye, Melvin, Yoke Kuen

Editor and transcriber of this episode: 
Cheryl Cheah, Susara Ng, Ke Hui Tee

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