Dhamma and sexuality.

In our Dhamma training we must recognize that sexuality and sexual preference are not an issues to focus on, it is desire itself which merits our sole attention.

All desire points outwards and says, ‘if only I had that, I would be happy’ and so the object of that desire can be anything.

From sexual desire, to desire for a cup of tea, the mental movement is always the same, and it is always about our own personal happiness, however romantically we might like to justify it.

So, the real question is not actually about sexuality but simply ‘can desire be transcended?’ and the answer is of course, yes.

The purpose of our practice is not to end the experiences of our difficulties, but to transcend (let go) of the cause of those difficulties, which in every instance is an identification with an idea of ‘self’.

So simply make your practice, formal or informal, about a loving awareness of the mind as it arises and passes away and every else will take care of itself.

However, it is important to acknowledge that even desire itself is not the problem. Desire is only a movement of mind due to conditions. It is our relationship to it that will help, or hinder our journey.

When we intuitively recognize that desires are not the enemy but simply movements of mind, we will not attempt to repress them and we will not immediately indulge them, but to be aware of their passing, like clouds in an empty sky.

And so it is said: With awareness we see, with love we accept and with wisdom we respond. This is the whole of Dhamma.

May you be well and happy, and continue upon this beautiful Dhamma path that leads to peace, acceptance and love for all beings.

May all beings be happy.