FACE FACTS

      Buddhism is a religion which always encourages man to face facts of life without acting as a hypocrite and to accept the truth whatever and wherever it may be. Therefore, Buddhists do not reject the facts pertaining to worldly matters discovered by great thinkers and scientists. Although the Buddha had paid moreattention to spiritual development, he never neglected

man’s worldly progress.

      In his teachings, we can find some sound and practical advices for man to work properly without wasting valuable time and effort and to act wisely for the progress of mankind. He said that man should fulfill his duties towards his family, relatives, friends, community, his country, and the whole world.

      Therefore, Buddhists should not ignore their duties and obligations to make this a happy and peaceful world by contributing their share within their capacity. Healso did not interfere with the affairs of government or with reasonable laws imposed by government. He was not against any social custom and tradition if theyare harmless and useful to the society.

      At the same time, he also never sought political or military power to introduce his way of religious life although the kings and the ministers were His followers.

      This is a religion, which teaches us to serve others, to sacrifice our own comfort for the sake precepts or disciplines voluntarily but not as commandments imposed by some unseen beings. By own conviction not only that we get the chance tobe perfect but we alsohelp others to live in peace.

      This perfection is the highest goal, which a personmust attain in order to gain his salvation. It cannot be obtained through the influence of any God.