What’s Normal
At first when we begin practicing Buddhism it may seem awkward to engage in all the self-reflection and examination we are called to do. I am sure, if you are like me, there are even times when it may seem easier to just ignore all the effort and just be ‘normal’.
But what is normal? Is it normal to go into default mode doing and being without thinking? Or is it normal to be deliberate, contemplative, mindful of our actions and what is going on inside ourselves?
“I will cause them to emancipate themselves from suffering if they have not yet done so. I will cause them to have peace of mind if they have not yet done so.” (Lotus Sutra, Chapter V)
When we were young, very young, normal was to be inquisitive, to explore, to adventure into unknown realms. As we age a little into our teenage years normal may be to rebel against everything or many things we have been taught, seeking to find our own unique individual way.
Later on in life as we grow into our middle years and have various responsibilities, perhaps owning a home, or raising a family, or commitments to loved ones, normal brings on a whole host of compromises that when we were younger we never imagined.
As we age further into senior life, normal can be something that is very confusing. It can be confusing because the body has aged and the mind isn’t used to those limitations. Normal can also be adjusting to perhaps many losses in life, friends, career, loved ones and so forth.
“The four kinds of devotees are joyful. They are happier than ever in body and mind.” (Lotus Sutra, Chapter I)
So what is normal? Normal is what we make it to be. Normal as a Buddhist is to try to constantly engage in skillful ways of living. Normal is to extend our concerns perhaps even further than ever before reaching deep into society to people we may not know. Normal as a Buddhist is to experience enlightenment and to not be satisfied with ‘what ever’ any more. Normal is not giving up. Normal is perhaps rediscovering yourself that has gotten lost along the way in your life.
“They had already eliminated asravas, and had no illusions. They had already benefited themselves, broken off the bonds of existence in the world of birth and death, and obtained liberty in their minds.” (Lotus Sutra, Chapter I)
