Question: Can I practice Buddhism sincerely in the midst of my job and family?
by Khenpo Tashi
O yes. For most of us, practicing anything for long hours is impossible, anyway. We will get tired. This goes not just for Buddhism, but also in doing our worldly responsibilities. So, we should be steady in doing only what we can.
We should practice in two ways. First, gradual habit. Second, strengthen the foundation.
Gradual Habit
We should not expect instant results, but expect results as we get older. It is better to have a long-term view of the results of our Buddhist practice.
At the same time, we should start small, but habitual. For instance, practicing for 10 minutes a day, everyday for a year. Then next year, 15 minutes a day, and so on.
Strengthen the Foundation
We engage in the practice that is comfortable to us. Also, if we are given the choice to engage between an advanced or basic practice, we should choose more on practicing the basic practice. That is the meaning of “strengthening one’s foundation”, by focusing on the basics.
Doing these two things, we will feel relaxed as we practice Buddhism, with our worldly responsibilities. We will progress in Buddhism consistently, little by little, in a relaxed way.