[bapimporb]

I am 20 years old. A practitioner of Muay Thai and I love everything about Muay Thai (and many other Martial Arts). Recently, I've decided to follow the philosophical side of martial arts rather than the physical side. I want to be a better person. I want to be more aware of myself and others. I want to bring peace, enlightenment, and protection to those in need.

I am also starting to study meditation (for focus and to understand the softer side of martial arts). I agree with almost everything regarding Buddhism, except that I am skeptical of reincarnation. I was raised by a Christian family but in my past and even now, I have come to question the legitimacy of that religion and of a higher power that want such praise from blind faith. Not saying I don't believe... but I'd like to look into another religion for some piece of mind.

I used to be pretty aggressive. Heavy drinker. Smoked weed, partied, stole, fought, etc. I've done some time in prison and been in and out of jail. I've moved past these things and done my best to put them behind me. I want to live a moral life and have nothing but total respect for Buddhism. So, considering all these things... am I on the right path for studying Buddhism?

Sorry if these aren't the forums for such questions. Just looked like a good place to ask. Thanks in advance, brothers.