Expert: Alex Wilding - 7/25/2008

Question
Hi Alex. Apologies in advance, my question is two-fold each of which is a non-sequitur to the other. Firstly, because of several life factors and metal propensities I'm going through a bout of depression. I'm trying to take this as an opportunity to help my practice. I know the Buddhist approach, I believe universal to all schools, is that bare awareness or mindfulness of your emotions is the key to experiencing them without suffering; to not run away from the emotion, but be in it without dukkha. However, I'm finding being with my emotions, trying to watch them without judgment, doesn't seem to make me feel any different. I know the typical Buddhist answer may be, "Well you're not supposed to 'feel' different, but you relate to what you feel in a different way; with non-attachment." But I guess I just feel like bare attention to my depression doesn't help dissolve my attachment; its quality hasn't changed. I guess I've lost faith that simple mindfulness brings about the change Buddhist purport. Any ideas?

Secondly, I was just interested how the Kagyu falls in terms  of the classifications of other Tibetan schools. I'm assuming it's a Madyamika school, but is it Pransangika or how does it different from Gelug school (which I believe is the Dalai Lama's sect? though I'm not sure). Thanks for all your help, much appreciated!!

Answer
Hi Jed,
Yes, I think you have stated a typical Buddhist position quite clearly, but you have described a very "high", hard and advanced approach. Not many people could cope with real depression that way! I'd think that in some way you have to be a bit kinder with yourself. The method you are trying to apply probably works - eventually. But in the meantime - I don't know you, and I'm no psychotherapist, so I don't know what to suggest in detail - might it not help to find a gentler way forwards?

As to your second question, it's probably fair to say that all schools of Tibetan Buddhism are Madhyamika, and all have great respect for the Prasangika, but Prasangika is a Gelukpa speciality. Many Kagyu teachers might say that Prasangika was the "peak" view, but what is not so clear is whether they understand the same thing by the word "Prasangika" that the more extreme Gelugpas do. A big field, as you probably know!

I hope that helps a bit.
All the best
Alex W