We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track. If this problem persists help us by reporting it so we can investigate it.
Watch this talk
Login or create a free account to watch this talk and discover other teachings from Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh.
Log in or create an account
Answering Questions - For the Young Generation
When there is disagreement with parents about doing social work, it is important to listen deeply and understand that they wish for their child to have a stable career, so that life is not precarious. At the same time, one should share that helping those who are suffering brings a deep joy and happiness that goes beyond income or status. Through listening and understanding, both sides can find a harmonious solution that is both stable and full of meaning.
Regarding marriage across cultures or religions, the principle of non-discrimination in Buddhism places happiness above lineage. We must examine reality: 1) differences in culture, language, and religion create a “cultural gap” and great challenges; 2) it is necessary to study cases that have gone before—for example, Vietnamese–French or Vietnamese–American couples—to see the rate of success and failure and the deep causes; 3) insight and love must go together, not relying only on initial passion. Buddhism also teaches that there are two spiritual roots (“Buddha and Jesus as brothers”), and the practice of the Five Mindfulness Trainings can be quietly maintained to preserve core values, even if the outer forms of religion are different.
The transmission of Vietnamese culture does not rely on words of teaching, but through daily living: the gesture of giving and receiving with both hands, sitting together for family meals without dividing money individually, offering incense before the ancestral altar with reverence, spending moments to share—even sitting and watching TV with your child, even if it is not your favorite genre—so that the child learns a gentle and refined way of living. The power of communication is sincere empathy: putting oneself in the skin and flesh of the other, expressing difficulties and frustrations honestly but with love, and from there, offering gentle advice without imposing.
