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Buddhist Layperson Meditates with Candy
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Can Reese's help attain enlightenment?
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October 13, 2002 -- According to Buddhist teaching, proper meditation is a
key component in helping to attain enlightenment. Apparently, Reese's
Pieces doesn't hurt, either.
Kelsey Connor, a 24-year-old Buddhist layperson, says he uses Reese's Pieces
and other candies while meditating to "keep his focus sharp."
"I've got my bag next to me every time I meditate," said Mr. Connor. "And I
put my bag of candy inside a plastic bag, so it won't spill all over the
place."
Teachers from the local Buddhist institute were puzzled by Mr. Connor's
unorthodox meditation.
"I do not understand how serious he is taking his quest for enlightenment,
with a bag of candy next to him," stated one teacher. "I also understand he
occasionally snaps his fingers -- I think he is attached to physical
pleasure, and should be told so."
Another teacher was more supportive. "If he wishes to meditate with candy
nearby, that is fine. After all, the Buddha meditated among flowers and
other sweet things -- so why not manufactured sweetness?"
Hershey Foods Corporation, which produces Reese's Pieces and other candies,
reportedly had no problem with the religious use of it's product.
