What Is Buddhist?

As a Follower of Buddha Shakyamuni, the first question that arises in my mind is what is Buddhist? Buddha Shakyamuni after Buddhist or after something else?
I would like to share some words through my limited beginner Buddhist. I was born into a Buddhist family, I feel delighted to be born a Buddhist but only being content to be Buddhist is not enough, I need to find out what is there in Buddhism. Asking the questions like why? who and where? asking a question is taken as a very praise situation even in the Buddha's time. When great disciples ask questions, Buddha always praises them, since asking the questions makes our devotion strong and wisdom grows.
So, why I am a Buddhist?
Not eating meat?
Even though many vegetarians don't eat meat but they have no connection with Buddhism or compassion, they are not eating meat because they want to be healthy.
Not playing in the night?
Many people don't have enough time or money and they don't play or visit Bars or playgrounds at night.
Not killing?
Many people including myself have no guts to kill anyone but that doesn't make us Buddhist.
Sitting in one place for a long time?
In that case, Mammut maybe Buddhism since they can stay in one place for a long time.
Can fly?
If that's the Buddhist and then many birds are Buddhist.
Chanting every day?
Even a parrot can chant every day if we teach them so does that make us Buddhist?
Wearing red or white clothes?
Many actors wear these clothes in movies but are they Buddhist?
Shaved hair?
Many people shave their hair when the weather is too warm but are they Buddhist?
Joining a Buddhist community or group or running after great masters?
Many rich people have lots of time and money so they do that for fun, are they Buddhist?
I have been asking this question to myself. Finally, I have come to the conclusion that I am Buddhist because I take refuge in the four Gem: Guru, Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha.

Jun 28, 2017