[AntonioMQ]

I know when people read this they will probably think what is he doing. I'm curious, is it realistic to practice Buddhism in todays world? I want to apply Buddhism to my life and even consider myself a Buddhist but I do not want to become a monk in a monestary. I believe when you practice something (in a religious aspect) that you shouldn't pick and choose what to follow. A majority of the concepts and teachings makes so much sense to me but then there is lobha. Dosa and moha are not a problem. Lobha on the other hand is. Is it wrong that I lust for or have a sexual relationship with my girlfriend? Is that selfish? I'm not willing to give up this part of my relationship. How do you apply this to your modern life?

Hi Jeremy,

Its not necessary for everyone to be a monk or a nun in order to be a Buddhist practitioner.

The Buddha gave advice to lay practitioners in several suttas.

You can find advice for lay people here in DN 31 Singalova Sutta:

http://www.accesstoinsight.org/tipit...31.0.nara.html

and here in AN 4.55 Samajivina Sutta: Living in Tune

http://www.accesstoinsight.org/tipit....055.than.html


Buddha said:

Husband & wife, both of them
having conviction,
being responsive,
being restrained,
living by the Dhamma,
addressing each other
with loving words:
they benefit in manifold ways.
To them comes bliss.
Their enemies are dejected
when both are in tune in virtue.
Having followed the Dhamma here in this world,
both in tune in precepts & practices,
they delight in the world of the devas,
enjoying the pleasures they desire.

AN 4.55