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For #2, I’d recommend books by Thích Nhất Hạnh as they are written very plainly, so they are accessible to anyone.
The Heart of the Buddha's Teaching Is a good overview of Buddhism.
The audiobook of The Art of Mindful Living gives practical ways to affect your awareness.
I’d actually recommend starting with the second one.A bunch more of his books are great, too.
- I don't understand meditation. Maybe I'm not doing it correctly?
You'll need to say what you're doing before anyone can comment on whether it's "correct".
- Why do you personally feel this religion is real?
What do you mean by "real"?
Going to a quiet place and trying to make an honest effort to think about nothing and clear all thinking.
I'm wondering how others have gotten to this path. I'm curious on others stories and journeys to get here. To this small slice of the internet to discuss religion here.
make an honest effort to think about nothing and clear all thinking
I would say no, you're not doing it correctly. Have a look at this video:
Thank you
Would a Buddhist bluff at poker?
(They say yes, bluffing in poker is fine, but false shit talking/"you should fold because my hand is so much better trust me!" is perhaps to be avoided.)
For #3, I'll tell you how I learned to meditate.
Start with short sessions, maybe 10-15 minutes. If you prefer, start with an audio guide. Try to focus on the process and remove any other ingredients. Count breaths, find a comfortable sitting pose, and work through any intrusive thoughts until you have a clean slate. If you can get through to a point where the sounds, smells, and light around you doesn't pull you out of this "empty" state, you'll find a clearer, more balanced mental state waiting for you on the other side of the session.