As a bodhisattva my intention is to awaken all beings–however the person that I am closest to, my wife has no desire to follow this path.  Although frustrating at first, I have come to realize that it is not my place to try to “convert” or push a certain way of life on her.  She is a very wise woman, and she actually lives many of the precepts already, not even realizing it.  But I cherish these teachings so fully, and truly believe that my life is so much more fulfilled since I realized the dharma.  It is my hope that someday she will want to embark on this journey with me, but at this time that is not the case.  I guess my question to fellow practitioners would be, how do I introduce her to the dharma in such a way that doesn’t push her away, but rather guides her along this path in a beautiful and positive way?  I realize the generic answer would be to simply live the precepts, becoming a vehicle for her to see the possibility of awakening.  Well this has been the case for a few years now, and quite frankly I don’t think she is any closer.  I’m sure she sees a difference in my attitude and temperment, but has never shown any attempt to want to start her own journey.  Maybe it’s just not her time, and I am just getting in the way, but as I mentioned earlier I would be so thrilled if we could move through this life together as fellow seekers. Any help from folks who have been through this would be most appreciated.

Namaste

Steven