Questions and Answers

This is a 117-minute session of questions and answers with Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh in Hanoi during the “Engaged Buddhism in the 21st Century” retreat. The date is May 10, 2008 and the questions and answers are offered in English.  Questions How would applied Buddhism look to the healthcare professional? (3:25) How do we deal with guilt? (8:07) My father cares about no-one and has no interest in life. He also has lots of anger. How can I help him? (17:50) A question on mindfulness of joy. Can you explain a little more about joy as it relates too attachment to the joy? (23:30) Experiencing suffering in not being able to conceive a child. (32:30) A question about medication and depression. In reference to what Thay taught in a previous talk. Sometimes there is also a physiological aspect to depression. Concern that Thay’s teaching may be misunderstood. Can you clarify? (41:24) Why does life exist? Why are we here? (56:33) As a young person, how can I use the practice and be able to share with other young people? Is there some more creative language that might speak more to young people? (1:00:00) How do we forgive someone whom we have never known intimately and have no way of communicating? For the suffering they have caused. (1:08:15) Having recently traveled in Laos and meeting many people impacted by the war and areas where unexploded ordinance remains. This caused anger and sadness to arise in me. Is this karma? Is this a time when we can be righteously angry? (1:16:03) There are young people who grow-up in a loving and supportive environment, but when they travel for university or work, they will face really negative pressure. This is a challenge. We should vaccinate our mind. Should we give children challenges so they are better prepared? (1:25:50) What is your intention with offering the Five Mindfulness Trainings? (1:35:30) Question about the 5th Mindfulness Training. This training watered by feeling of fear based on my upbringing as a Catholic. (1:45:30)