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Say, does anyone know why the SGI is now calling its "community centers" "BUDDHIST Centers" now? They always steered well clear of the word "Buddhism" on the property signs before
Maybe its because Buddhism has become trendy(?).
Its a 'brand' that people trust, so maybe its hoped that renaming SGI centers "Buddhist Centers" will attract more people. And since few people have detailed knowledge of Buddhist practice, they may be fooled into trusting that SGI is Buddhist because it uses the B word.
Am guessing. Will be interesting if more defectors arrive who can give the inside story about the name change.
Am going to tell you how things are changing.
In the old days, I could go around my city wearing my Buddhist mala and no one knew what it was. Christian friends who worked at skid row charity offices told me they sometimes would hide their neck crosses, because the more aggressive beggars would try to guilt trip them "You cant say no, you're a Christian."
But in those days, Buddhism wasnt on the spanger/grifter radar screen.
Some months ago, a panhandler came right up to me. "Are you Buddhist?"
I said I tried my best to practice.
And, bang, found myself on the end for a begging pitch.
So in my town the beggars are learning to panhandle Buddhists.
There are more and more magazines oriented to Buddhist practitioners and a plethora of websites where one can shop for Buddhist goods, interior decoration, etc.
So that may be why SGI had changed it from community centers to Buddhist centers?
Freshen up the brand name?