Lay person "outlook"

[Anna101]

Hi.

I would have a simple question that may sound superficial but is important to me. When I think about my life and my choices, I can see and understand (often afterwards) that the reason of many things has been and is Buddhism. For example, meditation, vegetarianism, compassionate about animals and nature, being single, no children, metta and compassion to all living things.

Now, all this is clear to me, but many people in my surroundings do not seem to understand all this. And it has been exhausting to explain and try to make them understand. Now I know that I should only answer: "I am a buddhist", but many times I am too late to answer.

Now the question. What could be a simple and clear outer sign or icon that I could have or wear to show this. Many religions have symbols that that they can wear and show their religion. Buddhist monks have their clothes but what could a lay person have? Any ideas? At the moment I am wearing an orange colour bracelet, probably some people understand the message.

Thank you for your answer.

Anna

[Aloka]

.

Hi Anna,

Its not necessary to tell everyone that you're a Buddhist, or to wear specific clothes, jewellery, colours or symbols.

Perhaps what is more important is that you just relax and forget about wanting to make others understand your beliefs ...and then maybe you can focus on studying and practising the Buddha's teachings instead.

May all sentient beings have peace, good health and happiness.


With metta, Aloka

[Anna101]

Yes, this bracelet only reminds me to live mindfully day by day and minute to minute.


Yes, I relax as much as possible... And I meditate daily.


With metta

Anna

[justusryans]

Sounds like you are already on the right track, I too wear a Mala as a reminder that there is only now, this minute, I don’t wear my Mala to identify me as a Buddhist. If I wanted to do that I’d just wear a shirt that said I am a Buddhist.

Aloka, it’s good to once again hear your wisdom.

Metta

Michael

[Francis]

Wear a beautiful smile, those who know will recognize you.

[Aloka]

Aloka, it’s good to once again hear your wisdom.

Metta

Michael

Thank you very much for your kind words, Mike.

[Anna101]

Thank you Aloka, Michael and Francis. You are very helpful and kind. They were very good answers. With metta, Anna

[Genecanuck]

Hello Anna101 and Aloka,

I realize this is an old thread but I found this as I was browsing the site today.

Aloka, your approach is exactly how I have approached the path I am on in my journy to learn about Buddhist teachings. I decided a long time ago that it was not important to form an identity that says, "yes, I am a Buddhist" and I do not directly attempt to make others understand the awareness or concepts I am learning. It just tends to come out organically in daily life conversations I have with friends.

Regards,

Gene