If you have to ask if it’s wrong, 

it very likely is. 

Asking our teacher for help in trying to figure out what we should do will often solicit advice to chant the Buddha-name. The purpose being that the chanting will help our mind become tranquil. This will allow the answer to be perceived, just as a no longer agitated pool of water will disclose the sand at the pool’s bottom.

Why doesn’t the teacher just tell us what to do?

First, her role is to teach principles, not decide for others how to live their life.

Second, she doesn’t need to tell us. We already know, just haven’t realized it. At least not clearly. An inkling is there. Its presence becomes more apparent when our appeal for help begins with “Is it wrong to . . . ? ”

If we’re wondering if something is wrong, it’s because we’re uneasy. Something about the action doesn’t feel right. That’s very likely our elusive inkling.

And so we need to ask ourself whether what we’re considering is something we could live with, be at ease with. If not, perhaps we should give it a pass.