Tag: Dalai Lama

Peace in the world depends on peace within. If we have that we’ll approach problems in a spirit of dialogue, compassion and respect for the rights of others—always a better solution than resorting to a use of weapons and force. External disarmament depends on inner disarmament.

Helping others brings deep satisfaction. No matter how powerful we may seem to be, our survival depends on the community. Clearly the community is crucial to individual happiness, so if we make others happy, we too derive benefit.

We should show one another love and help each another. It is a mistake to pursue happiness and to seek to the avoid suffering by deceiving and humiliating other people. We must try to achieve happiness and eliminate suffering by being generous and warm-hearted

Like anyone else, I too have anger in me. However, I try to recall that anger is a destructive emotion. Scientists say anger is bad for our health; it eats into our immune system. It destroys our peace of mind. We shouldn’t welcome it or think of it as natural or as a friend.

People face difficulties in many parts of the world, but since all seven billion of us live on this one planet we should be united and stand in solidarity with each other. When this blue planet is viewed from space, there are no national boundaries to be seen.

Entering into dialogue and talking things through is the only proper way of restraining people intent on perpetuating violent conflict. It is important to make clear that in the 21st century old ways of thinking, such as dependence on the use of force, are no longer appropriate.

We are social animals. If someone is angry with you, it’s important to remain warm-hearted towards them. Today’s enemy may become tomorrow’s friend. If they behave negatively towards you and you are hostile in return there’ll be no end to the trouble between you.

Happiness derived from mere physical comfort tends to be shallow and fleeting. It fails to pacify anxiety and fear. Whereas if we have a calm mind it is effective in overcoming even physical pain, therefore we should not neglect the inner values that are a source of a calm mind.

The problems humanity faces today demand a positive mental attitude and a sense of compassion for others. I firmly believe we can solve the majority of our problems by developing a sense of universal responsibility—wanting to do something for others without a selfish motive.

Our intelligence helps us regulate our emotions. Fear, for example, is based on mistrust and a lack of self-confidence. If, on the other hand, we remain honest and truthful, open and tolerant, we will not only have greater self-confidence we’ll easily overcome fear.