Is there something wrong with me? This simple question leads us into a richer exploration: the subtle power of Right View in Buddhism.
Think of Right View as a lens — The world around us is shaped by perspectives, labels, and experiences. As we questions its own reality, we’re invited to examine ours. Let’s explore how Right View helps untangle labels, honor identity, and discover the freedom that comes from seeing things as they truly are — and how it can offer solace, insight, and affirmation to the LGBTQ+ community.
“What’s in a name?” – Deconstructing Labels
Just like the alphabets, A – Z, each letter by itself, is void of meaning; it is only when combined with other letters to form words that it gains significance. In essence, we are crafting meaning from what appears to be nothingness.
Our upbringing significantly influences how we interpret this meaning. From an early age, we learn the alphabet, yet no one questions its origins or who invented it. Why can’t we start with ‘Z’ first? Why does ‘A’ sound like ‘A’?
Everything is constructed; nothing exists independently. Everything will undergo transformations as time progresses. Our mindset will evolve, our behavior will shift, and gradually, this body will age, fall ill, and ultimately pass away.
Practical tip: Notice when a label doesn’t define a person character and personality — whether it’s self-assigned or imposed—and create space to simply be.
Evidence: Studies show that young LGBTQ+ adults who reject rigid labels have lower rates of anxiety and depression.
Quote: “Labels can heal—and they can hurt. Freedom comes when we hold them lightly. Don’t be too quick to judge someone by its label” – Kyle Neo
“Constructed Reality” – Everything Changes
As the Buddha teaches us, no letter exists independently, highlighting how our perceptions change over time. We are all interdependent, without our father’s father, how can we exist and be born in this world? A fundamental aspect of Right View is the concept of our understanding. What may seem right to you might not resonate with others.
In Buddhism, Right View signifies a proper understanding of reality and the nature of suffering. It involves going beyond one’s perspective.
The view is shaped by personal experiences and conditioning.
Clinging to a rigid view while dismissing another’s perspective does not embody the Right View. Ultimately, Right View is essential for perceiving existence accurately, allowing us to see things as they truly are.
Practical tip: Reflect on how your view on yourself has evolved over months or years. Embrace that flexibility.
Evidence: Research shows that our personality are ever-changing, and this fluidity often supports mental well‑being.
Quote: “Impermanence isn’t loss — it’s becoming.” – Thich Nhat Hanh
“Seeing with Clarity” – Four Noble Truths and LGBTQ+ Struggles
Right View means recognizing suffering (dukkha), seeing its origins in societal rejection, labeling, and internalized shame, and holding space for change.
Practical tip: Write down a common moment of discomfort — what thought, label, or reaction triggers it? Observe it, name it, and let it pass.
Evidence: Mindfulness-based interventions reduce minority stress in LGBTQ+ communities.
Quote: “Awareness is the first step to lifting the weight of suffering.” – Sharon Salzberg
“Radical Acceptance” – Embracing What Is
Like the bat perched upside down, feeling out of place, Right View invites acceptance. Not “it’s okay” in the face of injustice — but acceptance of things as they are now. Acceptance doesn’t equal resignation —it’s the start line for wise action.
Practical tip: Each morning, name one thing about yourself with curiosity— physical traits, pronouns, expression — and say, “I accept this about me.”
Evidence: Self-acceptance correlates with stronger resilience in transgender and non-binary people.
Quote: “To accept yourself is to begin the revolution.” – Sam Dylan Finch
“From Reaction to Response” – Transforming Karma
In Buddhism, the number 108 is often regarded as auspicious, yet few take a moment to explore its significance. It is not merely a lucky number; rather, it embodies profound wisdom that unveils the origins of our distractions and suffering.
We experience life through six senses: sight, sound, smell, taste, touch, and consciousness. Each of these senses can evoke three types of reactions—like, dislike, or neutral. This results in 18 potential responses. Next, we multiply that by two—since we either cling to the experience or seek to avoid it — yielding 36. When we further multiply this by three, reflecting our past, present, and the present decision that affects the future, we arrive at 108.
If you turn 108 upside down, it becomes 801. When you then reverse the number 801, it transforms back into 108. The core significance of the number stays the same. Look beyond your fixed perceptions; there are two sides to every coin.
Practical tip: Pause before responding to hurtful words based on your views — ask: “What reaction serves compassion?” “Isn’t everyone deserves to be happy?”
Evidence: A 2021 study found that emotional regulation practices reduced acts of self-harm in LGBTQ+ youth.
Quote: “Between stimulus and response lies our power.” – Viktor Frankl
“Walking the Path Together” – The Eightfold Path & Community
While Right View is the start, the Eightfold Path — right intention, speech, action, livelihood, effort, mindfulness, and concentration — guides action. Practicing in affirming communities (like sanghas or queer support groups) strengthens resilience.
Practical tip: Join or start an LGBTQ+-friendly meditation circle or discussion group.
Evidence: Peer support and spiritual practice significantly improve mental health outcomes.
Quote: “We walk best together.” – Lama Rod Owens
Conclusion: From Silence to Serenity
We found peace not by changing what it was, but by seeing clearly — and thus, understanding its own worth. For LGBTQ+ individuals, Buddhist Right View shines a light on how labels, expectations, and conditioned mindsets can distort the view — and how mindfulness, acceptance, and compassion clear the lens.
Key takeaways:
Labels are meaningful, not binding.
Everything changes—including identity and self‑understanding.
Awareness of suffering and its roots leads to freedom.
Acceptance is a powerful companion to transformation.
Replacing reaction with compassion heals.
Community and practice make the path livable.
So here’s to seeing with clarity, holding labels lightly, accepting ourselves fully, and walking the Eightfold Path—honoring the richness of our journeys, just as they are.
