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Expert: - 11/1/2008


Question
Alex,
I have been interested in Buddhism (particularly Tibetan) for some time and have recently attended some SGI meetings. I know I believe in many elements of Buddhist philosophy. I was raised as a Roman Catholic, but no longer practice because I do not think the teachings of Jesus have been accurately presented in the organized church. I am also very attracted to Native American spirituality, and believe fully in what they call the Great Mystery--it seems to be perfectly in synch with Buddhist teachings.  While I am very interested in pursuing daily chanting and meditation, I am not sure that becoming an SGI member and enshrining a Gohonzon is for me. What do you suggest?

Answer
Hi Carol,
I honestly do not have the knowledge to answer this question. I know - and it sounds as if you know - that SGI has a poor reputation, so personally I'd be careful. But I have no real knowledge.
Good that you are being careful, though!
All the best
Alex W

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Alex Wilding

Expertise

I have practiced and studied Tibetan Buddhism in the Kagyu and Nyingma traditions since the early 1970s, and have a good knowledge of theory, history and of the struggles of trying to practice the teachings, including meditation, while leading a normal, modern life. I am also available to provide background information for journalists.

Experience

I have been a practitioner since the early 1970s; have run a small Buddhist centre in the English Midlands and was vice-president of Kagyu Benchen Ling e.V. in Germany, for whom I managed three large Buddhist summer-camps. More importantly, I maintain a habit of personal practice. I am the "owner" of the Kagyu list at Yahoo.

Education/Credentials
My first degree was an M.A. from Oxford. I later obtained a Master of Philosophy degree for a research thesis in "Initiation in Tibetan Buddhism" from Leicester University. I also have engineering and educational qualifications.

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