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Buddhism and the future
Hey all again guys,
If Buddhism emphasises only living in the moment, then how does that relate to future saving, for travelling, doing nice things, engaging in hobbies etc?
I have researched a bit, and realised a lot of countries that are inherently Buddhist, are not particularly progressive. Modern medicine, for instance, comes out of the West with very different values. So does plentiful amounts of food, and safe shelter.
I sometimes think, maybe we've got a lot more right than I initially thought, saving fur the future seems sensible because (although accepting death is understandable), we should expect it tomorrow no more than we expect to win a lottery. I like the idea of a future, and future experiences - Is that wrong?
Further, I do want a good job, I would like a comfortable place to live and I do want to keep my girlfriend! Combining my favourite Western values, with some of the beautiful Buddhist values, is proving difficult at times. Still, something great should come at the end of it!
Thanks
If Buddhism emphasises only living in the moment, then how does that relate to future saving, for travelling, doing nice things, engaging in hobbies etc?
I have researched a bit, and realised a lot of countries that are inherently Buddhist, are not particularly progressive. Modern medicine, for instance, comes out of the West with very different values. So does plentiful amounts of food, and safe shelter.
I sometimes think, maybe we've got a lot more right than I initially thought, saving fur the future seems sensible because (although accepting death is understandable), we should expect it tomorrow no more than we expect to win a lottery. I like the idea of a future, and future experiences - Is that wrong?
Further, I do want a good job, I would like a comfortable place to live and I do want to keep my girlfriend! Combining my favourite Western values, with some of the beautiful Buddhist values, is proving difficult at times. Still, something great should come at the end of it!
Thanks
0
Comments
I checked a few similar posts and found: http://www.tricycle.com/dharma-talk/pushing-limits?page=0,0&offer=dharma
It says, skilful desires are fine, but be mindful to ensure they are skilful. When I have travelled in the past, that process involved working, saving up and really considering the future. Having travelled, I am happy for the entire experience, I saw new parts of the world, broadened my horizons and came to develop myself as a person.
In the same way, I will abstain from making love to other women because of a love for my girlfriend; I give up the moment (which is all important in Buddhism?) for my perceived and relatively realistic (yet granted, not entirely certain) future with her, and the happiness that brings.
The continued problem I have is my over philosophising
It is very hard to find peace when your mind questions everything.
Though, nothing worth having ever came easily (I'm philosophising again..)
I'm going to shut up now..
Happiness to you all