Everyday Life
Can enjoyable work bring inner stability without religion?
English translation draft · Based on the Chinese article. This is not a word-for-word translation approved by Master Shengyuan.
Yes. Even without taking part in religious practice, someone may already be doing what their soul truly wishes to do. If an activity brings genuine inner peace and satisfaction and makes you willing to devote yourself to it, you can also find stability within. This kind of fulfilment does not have to be confined to religion.
YOYO once asked about people who love beautiful things and work in cosmetics, nail care or bridal styling; people who enjoy needlework and make clothing or sew; and people who want to help others regain their health and become doctors. These people may not have encountered spiritual practice, but they are happy in their work. Is that all right? I said at the time that it is. These may also be things their souls wish to do.
The happiness I mean here is a genuine sense of peace and harmony within, and satisfaction with what you are doing. When your thoughts and your inner direction are more closely aligned, it is easier to feel settled. So look at how you actually feel. A job is not necessarily right for you simply because its title sounds good.
If you truly wish to draw close to deities and Buddhas, you can also make time in your life for worship, scripture reading or meditation. You can continue working, travelling and being in a relationship. Spiritual practice does not require you to become a monastic or resign from your job at the outset. If you are already ill, first seek treatment and take care of your body, then arrange practices that you can manage alongside the rest of your life.