Natural Awakening Peter McEwen: Vajrayana Past, Present, and Future
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Jul 17, 2025 
Peter McEwen, a practitioner exploring Vajrayana Buddhism's intersection with Western culture, dives into the adaptation of these teachings in America. He emphasizes personal ethics over conformity and discusses how methods like deity yoga help reshape identity. Peter also shares his journey from depression to liberation, showcasing the transformative power of Buddhist practices. Additionally, he addresses sectarian conflicts within Buddhist communities and the need for contemporary representations of deities, linking them to modern archetypes like superheroes.
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Vajrayana's Core: Non-Duality
- Vajrayana's future involves distinguishing integral practices from cultural habits.
- Emphasizing non-duality and liberation is key in evolving Western Vajrayana practice.
Cultural Variance in Ethics
- Different cultures view transgressive practices like alcohol and meat differently in Vajrayana Buddhism.
- Western Buddhists have become more morally strict, reflecting their social progress values, which may differ from traditional Buddhist views.
Liberation vs. Political Correctness
- Being politically correct or socially ethical isn't the same as being a good Buddhist.
- Liberation, not enforcing personal agendas on Dharma, is the true goal of Buddhist practice.