really nice experience. i admire how you were able to relate your experience without romanticizing the past or demonizing the people who are part of your story. that's been one of the great benefits of this practice for me, the perspective. it seems that by recognizing that all of these moments you experienced revealed aspects of your higher self your able to honestly relate them, the fun and fulfillment of partying, of drugs and of friends, temporary of course, but no less real... and how this path is the one that lead you toward enlightenment.

thank you for sharing.

WOW! What a beautiful and empowering experience! It's such a source of encouragement! Because of the myriad of experiences that you've had being 'out and about in the life', many young people will be able to relate and be totally encouraged by the power of your prayer and the power of your own life and determination.

Back in the day, I started practicing in 1973 in San Francisco. Several years before that, it was all about going to see Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Sly Stone, The Rolling Stones and of course you HAD to be stoned on EVERYTHING at one time! I practiced Nichiren Buddhism for 10 years before I realized that maybe doing drugs and drinking every night wasn't a good idea!!! Sometimes it takes a while for some light to be shed on our fundamental darkness! I never chanted to stop paryting because I didn't think anything was wrong with it. And my seniors never laid a trip on me about stop drinking and partying. They always told me to continue my practice no matter what, and I'll be able to determine what's right and wrong in my own life and I'll find my path.

I always thought that I'd have to be high to be "cool and fun". When I stopped I realized that I'm naturally cool and fun, and that I could experience the value of chanting at a much deeper level.

Thank you for sharing your experience and helping me to refresh my seeking spirit.