[Inonanialry]

Have you had any issues/apprehensions about declaring yourself Buddhist to your family and friends? I have been apprehensive for a long time because I feel like they will think I've gone a bit crazy. These feeling are reducing over time. Just wondered about other peoples experiences. My wife and children do know about my fondness of Buddhism by my larger family do not.

[yasmin]

I was listening to this... (until about 14:44)

[Sironimoll]

That's a good question.

For me, no not really because those close to me have seen the impact it has had on me. But perhaps what I may not have been ready for was all of the things people do not understand about Buddhism. To a lot of people, it may have a certain image and most people here really don't know what the fundamental purpose of Buddhism really is.

In this way I think certain teacher have done a great job in writing books for example, which really takes the heart of the Buddha's teachings and presents them in such a way that is very adaptable to people in their everyday life.

But I guess what I found was that it doesn't matter so much that others know my beliefs, but that I know that the three jewels are my true refuge in samsara.

[glasscollector]

I have been apprehensive for a long time because I feel like they will think I've gone a bit crazy.

hi Karma

if that is the case i can only suggest developing a very clear rationale in your mind about why you are interested in Buddhism

that is, a rationale & framework that sounds rational & practical to others

for example: "buddhist principles support a healthy lifestyle"

dhammas (buddhist practices) generally nurture mental qualities that are relevent to all people

thus being able to articulate these mental qualities in relevent ways to others can help them appreciate the practical nature of buddhism

just one suggestion

kind regards

element

[Jorcelirl]

Hi Karma,

The problems happen when the issue of non self and impermanence has to be exposed when asked about the fundamental aspect of the teachings of Buddha. Everything else is more or less OK with people. So, shearing and comprehensive communication can be done through the issues of meditation and ethics.

[adsexpist]

I watched the first few minutes of the video #2 and I think Ajahn Jayasaro made an important point about how if we are manifesting a sense of peacefulness and happiness ourselves then people around us pick up on it.

So therefore being balanced and happy as a result of regular practice has an effect on others as well as oneself - and maybe when they notice, they might begin to ask some positive questions about that, rather than thinking you've "gone a bit crazy".



.

[Virosponna]

Hi Karma,
My wife and children are aware of my Buddhist tendencies, I don't think that there's a requirement for anyone else to know. For instance, certainly if I were to mention it at my place of work I would be the subject of ridicule, why would I do that to myself? So I believe some things are best kept private on a need to know basis. I'm not ready to go out waving the Buddhist flag just yet, things are just fine as they are.
Take Care
Gary