[Tazqoaap]

I may be redundant asking this and I am very sorry if I am, but is someone who takes refuge alone less of a Buddhist than someone who takes a formal refuge with a monk or master? I am deeply sorry if i'm annoying anybody by asking similar things over and over again.
Hi David,

At the moment, I sense you are in a questioning phase of your life. When I took formal refuge, it was after a long period of inner questioning. Today, you could give yourself permission to follow the Buddhist precepts informally as an introductory step. You decide your beliefs. You are your own sanctuary where you can find a place of refuge.

There are some great places on the net where you can download Dharma talks in MP3 that will help you to connect to the different communities that make up the vastness of the Buddhist tradition. Give yourself time to naturally discover which of these communities can best support you in your inner quest.

I think your parents could be supportive when they see that you are building a spiritual life that in no way threatens their own beliefs and you are maturing in your own right as an adult. It can be very daunting as a parent to watch your children seemingly move away from everything that you know to be so important.

Kindest regards

Gyaltsen