Expert: Laurie McLauglin - 7/3/2009

Question
QUESTION: I was initiated into Buddhism about 5 years ago. Call me restless but I explored outside the religion and  now I'm also a pagan. I experienced seeing fairies. Are they called something else in Buddhism. I don't fake or make up things I'm a realist, and I know what I saw. Please if you know the answer to my question it would be helpful to me.

Thank you,
Kathy

ANSWER: Thank you for letting me answer your question.

I am sure you do not fake or make up things.  

In the eight years of my practice of Mahayana Tibetan Buddhism with which I am associated, I do not recall ever having any teachings on, seeing representations of or dealing in any way with fairies. Nonetheless, from what I have learned, there are stories and parables and even some sutras, I believe that mention fairies; mostly tree fairies.

However, I am not sure if the Tibetan or Indian idea of a fairy is the same as a Pagan idea of a fairy.

As you probably know,it is not proper for a Buddhist to try to change someone's religious path, as they must find their way up the mountain.  Nonetheless, mixing to religions that are as different as Paganism and Buddhsim may result in it taking longer for you to reach Nirvana or enlightnement than pursuing Buddhism only.  That said, however, mixing the two might work just fine for you.  But I believe it would be remiss of me if I did not mention this potential hazard to you.

In any event, I wish you much success and happiness on your spiritual journey.

Do not hesitate to ask any follow up questions if any arise

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you for you honest answer. I'm going back to my practice of the Mahayana Tibetan Buddhism, I learned what I needed to learn,and now my path is leading back to Buddhism. Mainly because of it's teaching of compassion, and the Dalai Lama makes more sense to me then anyone else.But I saw the faries and I knew there had to be a Buddhist point of view.

With love and thanks,
Kathy

Answer
I am glad you are returning to pursuing only one major religion as I believe that will help you reach your highest spiritual potential more quickly. Both Buddhism and Paganism are valid paths.   I myself was a Pagan at one time.

I really enjoyed practicing Paganism although I found I could not control my ego enough as a Pagan to stop using the power of the magic for my own aims and not for the benefit of all sentient beings.

I am glad you find the teachings of the Dalai Lama helpful.  He does make a lot of sense, doesn't he?

If you are going back to study Mahayana Tibetan Buddhism, then I urge you to find a qualified Tibetan Geshe or Lama to ask your question about fairies to. I am sure they will be happy to give you more information on fairies in their culture which will hopefully give you insight into why you seem to have karma with them.

Don't hesitate to contact me with any questions you might have.

Laurie