Buddhists/The Path

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Expert: - 1/17/2009


Question
I took refuge with a Tibetan master in 1995 and although I have a deep faith and find it a great comfort, I have to say that since becoming Buddhist I have had to confront many difficulties including a bone marrow transplant for leukaemia, the ending of three relationships etc.
Before I took refuge some students told me that when you commit to the Vajrayana path - it is the 'fastest' path to enlightenment but also means more is thrown at you in the way of obstacles and difficulties. What's your opinion on this - it seems true for a few students I know but of course it could just be ripening karma.
I'd appreciate your thoughts.
Sincerely,
Janet

Answer
Hi Janet,
You have had it tough!
As you say, some people do say that the Vajrayana path brings up difficulties. My own opinion (which is all it can be) is that for most of us we just need to realize that following the Vajrayana is not a magic talisman that will clear the way in front for us.
Beyond that, I suspect that it's very much an individual thing - it's very hard to know what karma any of us has really, or what is round the next corner.
So Vajrayana or not, I think we all have to hope for the best and prepare for the worst!
Not very definitive, I know, but that's all I can honestly say.
All the best
AW

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Alex Wilding

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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.

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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.

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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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