In Asia, it is considered the highest honor if a member of one's family
leaves the home life. Westerners, however, may be shocked at the idea of anyone
leaving their family to become a monk or nun. They may think this is selfish and
turning one's back on the world. In fact, monks and nuns are not selfish at all.
They dedicate themselves to helping others. They don't wish to own a lot of
things, or to have money or power. They give these things up to gain something
far more valuable--spiritual freedom. By living a pure simple life with others
on the same path, they are able to lessen their greed, hatred, and ignorance.
Although monks and nuns live in a monastery, they do not entirely give up
their families. They are allowed to visit and take care of them when they are
ill.
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