Introduction

Hi,
My given name is John, but my forum name is shinnen; call me by whichever name you prefer. Shinnen is the name given to me when I was confirmed into the Jodo Shinshu sect, many many years ago. I was raised Catholic and adopted Buddhism at the age of 47. It was, to say the least, a life changing moment. I'm hoping, that the members of this forum will provide me with, not so much their opinions, but an overview of what the great minds of history have to say regarding the many many questions I have about life. My immediate interest is wrt to freedom. I've been asking myself lately, "What is it (like) to be free. Please guide me toward the people you believe can help me to come to grips with this question.
Thanks,
shinnen