Family Buddhism for Canada
Family Buddhism or "Buddhism After Patriarchy" sees the arena of family life as an ideal setting for encouraging the spiritual development of all family members.

The 1970's and 1980's in Canada were characterized by many marriages ending in divorce. The children of these upset homes are coming forward now, eager to learn ways to find a new kind of harmony between husband and wife. They are determined to learn from their parents' mistakes. An outstanding feature of their new families is shared parenting and shared housework.

This major shift in family lifestyle can probably be traced to the almost routine participation of young fathers now in the labour and delivery of mother and child at birth. These birth moments are so emotionally and spiritually compelling for the fathers as well as for the mothers, that we see men closely bonded to their infants, and therefore eager to participate in their care and education.

Patriarchal Buddhism sees family life as a "life of attachment." Family Buddhism sees marriage partners as attached to each other in the same way as a candle is made of both wax and wick. By themselves, neither wax nor wick can function fully. Bound together as a candle, they can bring the Light of Dharma to all. Within such a marriage, the children and their friends will naturally grow up to live in shared harmony with others, because this is what they see every day between their parents.

The most important thing a parent can do for his/her children, is to do one's best, with a sincere heart, to listen to the teachings of Buddha, and gradually learn to apply the teachings more and more in everyday domestic life. Through the creation of harmonious Buddhist families, we will gradually bring about World Peace for all.