|
Message Board: |
| DISCLAIMER: This board is not connected to any organization. All messages are solely the personal opinions of the posters. We are not responsible for any postings (or the resulting side-effects) that are expressed on this board. Posters, please confine your discussions to subjects concerning the study of Buddhism. |
| Poster: CWC Reply Post Message Date: Sun Dec 1 16:23:26 2002 |
| Subject: question on buddhism and relationship |
| Post No: 1082 |
Xin chao cac anh chi va co bac, chau khong biet ranh tieng Viet nen se viet bang anh ngu. Xin cac co chu chi day. I'm a 21 year old college student who has interest in buddhist practice since middle school. When I was younger, I was carefree and practicing buddhism was in no question. However, as I grow older I became very confused about the buddhist view on romantic relationships. Is the ultimate buddhist path renunciation? To not be intimate with anyone? Although I have been presented with many situations in which I could be involved in an intimate relationship, I chose not too because I find it to conflict with true buddhist practice. For example, the concept of no attachment teaches one to not hold onto something or someone. However, when I examine myself deeply, I cannot deny my longing to deeply connect with another being nor can deny the fact that I am attracted to the opposite gender and sometimes wish to have a boyfriend. But then what about my buddhist practice? My longing is a desire and desire is an illusionary state of mind. If one practices Buddhism perfectly, he/! she should feel complete and at one with the world. So there would be no need to be involved in a relationship. Please help. I'm very confused. Thank you. |