To reduce destructive emotions we need to strengthen constructive emotions. For example, to counter anger we cultivate love and compassion.
The most important thing is to have a sense of responsibility, commitment, and concern for each of our fellow human beings.
The purpose of our lives is to be happy. We live in hope, which means looking forward to something good. And there are increasing scientific findings that both our physical and mental well-being depend on our peace of mind.
It seems that for some people the idea of compassion entails a complete disregard for or even a sacrifice of their own interests. This is not the case. In fact, you first of all have to have a wish to be happy yourself – if you don’t love yourself like that, how can you love others?
When ever Buddhism has taken root in a new land, there has been a certain variation in the style in which it is observed. The Buddha himself taught differently according to the place, the occasion and the situation of those who were listening to him.
It is worthwhile for one to make an effort to achieve happiness. Just as the purpose of a plant is to grow, so it is that the main purpose of every human being is to survive and to grow until death.
There should be a spirit of dialogue. Whenever we see any disagreements, we must think how to solve them on the basis of recognition of oneness of the entire humanity. This is the modern reality.
We must realize that it is best to focus on our oneness, to re emphasize what is the same about each of us rather than dwell on what is different.
Hatred, jealousy, and fear hinder peace of mind. When you’re angry or unforgiving, for example, your mental suffering is constant. It is better to forgive than to spoil your peace of mind with ill feelings.
I don’t take myself too seriously! That makes me happy.
On those days when I can spend a few hours getting some understanding, I feel fulfilled. I feel as if I have made good use of my time.
The Buddha gave equal opportunities to women. But we, even as followers of Buddha, neglected that.
I have never been any place where I was not first invited. And upon invitation, if I feel that there is potential for making some contribution to humanity, I will comply in spite of being tired.
If I were to die today, I would have some concern for Tibet. But I know that I have personally done as much as I can to use my existence for others. So I have no regret.
I make small mistakes every day. But major mistakes? It doesn’t seem so. I’ve examined my service to the Tibetan people and to humanity, and I’ve done as much as I can in my life.
Altruism is the best source of happiness. There is no doubt about that.
People should not rush to change religions. There is real value in finding the spiritual resources you need in your home religion. Even secular humanism has great spiritual resources; it is almost like a religion to me.
Without mutual tolerance emerging as the foundation, terrible situations like those of Tibet and Sri Lanka, Bosnia and Rwanda, can never be effectively improved.
Tibetans must take full authority and responsibility for developing industry, looking from all different perspectives, taking care of the environment, conserving resources for long-term economic health, and safeguarding the interests of Tibetan workers, nomads, and farmers.
I think many people knows what I am thinking. The whole world knows I am not seeking independence, therefore is many Tibetan disappointed, and also some of our supporters – many Indians, many Europeans, many Americans are also disappointed because I am not seeking independence.