Absolutely correct. Actually this greeting is originally from India and found its way throughout Asia via Buddhism. I also don't have a problem with Buddhism or Hinduism. However, if you are so reflexively using this sort of gesture (I recall Kerry even used it to greet a Catholic priest) then that is a strong indication that you are more than just a little involved with that tradition. Kerry is presenting himself as a Catholic while it appears to me in fact that he more strongly identifies himself with the Buddhist tradition (so much so that he gave "pranam" to a Catholic priest.) Seems a bit dishonest to me.
Or perhaps confused. 'Jewish/Catholic/Buddhist'; whatever he needs; whenever he needs it.
Thanks much. This clasped hand greeting is Hindu in origin since it's an older religion but the Buddhists do it to. To my memory it means "hello, I salute your soul and higher being". With Kerry it's an au courant New Age thing that "hip" Americans do in places like California and Massachusetts.