Affiliate Marketing Secrets

Martial arts sects in ancient China: Shao lin, Wudang (Wudang was formed from an ex Shao Lin disciple; though Wudang’s form of martial arts and philosophy is inclined towards Taoism), Emei, Kunlun, etc. Understandably, some of these sects were either of Taoist or Buddhist-affiliated origins.
China is a very huge nation and in ancient times, some temples were in isolated, secluded mountainous regions and were often raided by bandits, etc. Hence, there was a need for the monks to take up martial arts to defend the temple and themselves from such raids.

I say I am a buddhist but I don’t affiliate with a group, because I think that groups over complicate things. The only people I follow the teachings of are the Buddha himself and the Dalai Lama. (I know the Dalai Lama is Tibetan buddhist but I still like to hear what he has to say in terms of the Buddhas teachings). Is it ok to simply say that I am a Buddhist, and that my one true spiritual teacher is the buddha himself.

I am not a Buddhist and have never been to a service before, so I know nothing about it. However I really want to go to a service and see a little bit what the religion is like! So I have a few questions.
First, would it be accepted for me to attend a service if I’m not affiliated with the religion at all, or would that be frowned upon?
Secondly, what types of things do they do? I have been to a Christian church service before; is it at all similar to that?
Is there anything that you think may catch the average American off-guard? Just so I can be expecting & not be too surprised by anything, like a deer in headlights.
I think that’s it. Thanks!