Q. After studying an introductory course at the London Buddhist Centre last year, I had some strong opposition to it from my partner. Although I made it clear that I wasn’t about to take up the robes and leave her (!), but that it would continue to be part of my life, I have, intentionally or not, become somewhat of a closet follower of the dharma. Should I be concerned about this?

A. No, not at all. ‘Coming out’ can be very difficult and often takes quite a long time. Be in no hurry, and trust in what you are doing. Confidence will grow and you will naturally become yourself. It’s easy to imagine that because others have little or no knowledge of Buddhism, somehow they will become suspicious of you. Indeed, that may well happen. Let those around you slowly get used to your new interest. Often they may feel threatened by what you are doing, and if it’s a partner that feels uneasy it may be that they are concerned that you may change and leave them. Give these important changes in your life time to settle and become familiar to those around you, communicate with them and let them see that you are not starting to grow horns or are about to do something silly.