I am what you might call an "eclectic Buddhist"...I really love the tenets of Buddhism, but spent a big part of my life involved in paganism & the UU church, as well as New Thought Community.
I haven't formally taken vows, but I try to live closely with the tenets of the religion, which are actually quite close to other major religions, including Wiccan/Pagan beliefs. Basically, don't harm people/animals unneccessarily(& this includes yourself). Live with dignity. It's really that simple.
Someone asked about Buddhism. Technically, Buddhism doesn't have a "god". We can all be a buddha. The historical Buddha was a man who became enlightened. We can all (in theory, at least) achieve buddhism. It makes me think a little of humanism. Everyone can be "perfect" and "enlightened".
Take care,
Angie
PS Adopting from China...LID 06/08/06, which gives me a hopefull approxiamate dat of around 8/07 for referral.