Do buddhist teachers give advice concerning relationships?
Yes, especially the lay and yogic ones who have practical experience. Whether the main reason for a relationship is physical attraction, an inner feeling that one shares the same interests or a deep identification, there is much to learn. If one works intelligently with what is there, ever more complete human growth will materialise. As this is only possible in a relaxed atmosphere, it is important to avoid expectation and competition in relationships. Supporting one another when working in the world is very meaningful, and this happens best when thinking “we” or “us”, not “me” and “her” or “him”. Though both partners will usually share some ups and downs, happiness and suffering will always depend on each one’s view. Thus, if one partner has a special quality, one can decide to make it a shared richness. To avoid losing this openness, it is important to be aware that men tend to separate survival and fun, while women see life as a totality. Men may be rough during work, and often don`
