Right Views and Right Intent is a conscious reprogramming of how we think and act in life. This can be alarming to people around us and even to ourselves.

For example, when we choose to follow the Buddhist precepts, we avoid drinking, even at social events. This can be deemed anti-social by our peers and friends. The explanation that we decided to stop drinking because we are Buddhist now is likely to raise a few eyebrows.

And if you enjoyed fishing or hunting previously, the decision to abstain from harming sentient beings is likely to invite ridicule from your hobby buddies.

Not forgetting that these changes in perspectives are likely to create distance in relationships if the only thing bonding the relationship is exactly those activities that we no longer think are appropriate.

In short, adopting Buddhist perspectives in life does have its challenges because we might be going against the flow. Therefore, it isn’t surprising to find people who lament that it is too difficult to practice Buddhism. Some might decide to make adjustments to their life, and others might adjust their Buddhist practice.

For example, cutting down on that hunting trip or reducing the number of drinks per social gathering. There is no hard and fast rule in Buddhist practice. Everyone is finding their middle path, and it all boils down to how we prioritise the various elements in life.

But if we slowly adjust our perspective and intent in life, the wisdom of our choices will inevitably dawn upon us. That will motivate and lead us to perfect our practice. The important thing is not to give up, but to practice according to our comfort level. Some people progress steadily, while others remain stuck in their comfort zone forever.

The masters will say that it is all due to our karma.

When I heard that in the past, I used to think that it meant some mysterious energy in life was preventing me from improving—blaming everything on actions caused by another “self” from another lifetime.

But in reality, karma actually means our intentional actions, words, and thoughts. That decision to drink two glasses per social gathering is a conscious decision. It is thought karma. That prioritisation to blend in socially instead of practising our conviction in the Dharma is also our karma.

Thus, a Buddhist master said, “To be a successful practitioner, you need to have backbone.” That means to possess strength of character, firmness of purpose, and the ability to stand firm in one’s convictions, even in the face of adversity and challenges.

This message of having backbone is seldom heard today, and I think it is worth promoting once again. The right thing to do in life may not be the most popular, but it will ultimately lead to a greater cause. And while we practice what we believe in, we mustn’t forget the three fundamental principles:

• To eliminate and reduce our cravings for fleeting pleasures in life
• To be harmless
• To be without ill-will and animosity

This is known as Right Intent. That way, we will not fall into the trap of becoming religious zealots.

May all be well and happy.