[MidwestMadman]

I tottaly agree with you that the mind suffers allot by not knowing your choice but im 21, i didnt grow up in a monastry and so how do i know that after declaring myself a lay monk so to speak that i dont find someone who encompasses my souls desires, desires that i believe no one can get rid of as there not there untill you meet the one. For example right now i do not desire anyything but tomorow a girl drop her keys while im walking behind her and i meet her eyes as i pass them back how can i tell my heart no.....i mean 21 is a young age to say i dont want to have a family, does this make sense.

hi again, Justen

without reading the whole thread, i noticed it is about emotion

in Buddhism there are two kinds of emotions:

(1) selfish (defiled) emotions, such as greed, hatred, delusion, jealousy, etc

(2) mature emotions, such as universal love & respect (loving-kindness), compassion, appreciation, equinimity, patience, generosity, trustworthiness, loyalty, etc

Buddha taught if two people wish to have a good marriage, they must develop mature emotions. in today's world, there are many temptations & pressures and two people without virtue may struggle in marriage

so, as a young man interested in Buddhism, you can set your heart on developing these mature emotions (that will serve you well for the rest of your life, whether you get married or not)

kind regards