Compassion and the Individual
Tenzin Gyatso; The Fourteenth Dalai Lama
The purpose of life
ONE GREAT QUESTION underlies our experience, whether we think about it consciously or not: What is the purpose of life? I have considered this question and would like to share my thoughts in the hope that they may be of direct, practical benefit to those who read them.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama poses for photos after his interactive session with students at Princeton University's Chancellor Green Library in Princeton, New Jersey on October 28, 2014. (Photo by Denise Applewhite)
I believe that the purpose of life is to be happy. From the moment of birth, every human being wants happiness and does not want suffering. Neither social conditioning nor education nor ideology affect this. From the very core of our being, we simply desire contentment. I don't know whether the universe, with its countless galaxies, stars and planets, has a deeper meaning or not, but at the very least, it is clear that we humans who live on this earth face the task of making a happy life for ourselves. Therefore, it is important to discover what will bring about the greatest degree of happiness.
How to achieve happiness
For a start, it is possible to divide every kind of happiness and suffering into two main categories: mental and physical. Of the two, it is the mind that exerts the greatest influence on most of us. Unless we are either gravely ill or deprived of basic necessities, our physical condition plays a secondary role in life. If the body is content, we virtually ignore it. The mind, however, registers every event, no matter how small. Hence we should devote our most serious efforts to bringing about mental peace.
From my own limited experience I have found that the greatest degree of inner tranquility comes from the development of love and compassion.
The more we care for the happiness of others, the greater our own sense of well-being becomes. Cultivating a close, warm-hearted feeling for others automatically puts the mind at ease. This helps remove whatever fears or insecurities we may have and gives us the strength to cope with any obstacles we encounter. It is the ultimate source of success in life.
As long as we live in this world we are bound to encounter problems. If, at such times, we lose hope and become discouraged, we diminish our ability to face difficulties. If, on the other hand, we remember that it is not just ourselves but every one who has to undergo suffering, this more realistic perspective will increase our determination and capacity to overcome troubles. Indeed, with this attitude, each new obstacle can be seen as yet another valuable opportunity to improve our mind!
Thus we can strive gradually to become more compassionate, that is we can develop both genuine sympathy for others' suffering and the will to help remove their pain. As a result, our own serenity and inner strength will increase.
Our need for love
Ultimately, the reason why love and compassion bring the greatest happiness is simply that our nature cherishes them above all else. The need for love lies at the very foundation of human existence. It results from the profound interdependence we all share with one another. However capable and skillful an individual may be, left alone, he or she will not survive. However vigorous and independent one may feel during the most prosperous periods of life, when one is sick or very young or very old, one must depend on the support of others.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama comforting a young survivor during his visit to the Tsunami devastated region of Sendai, Japan on November 5, 2011. (Photo by Tenzin Choejor/OHHDL)
Inter-dependence, of course, is a fundamental law of nature. Not only higher forms of life but also many of the smallest insects are social beings who, without any religion, law or education, survive by mutual cooperation based on an innate recognition of their interconnectedness. The most subtle level of material phenomena is also governed by interdependence. All phenomena from the planet we inhabit to the oceans, clouds, forests and flowers that surround us, arise in dependence upon subtle patterns of energy. Without their proper interaction, they dissolve and decay.
It is because our own human existence is so dependent on the help of others that our need for love lies at the very foundation of our existence. Therefore we need a genuine sense of responsibility and a sincere concern for the welfare of others.
We have to consider what we human beings really are. We are not like machine-made objects. If we are merely mechanical entities, then machines themselves could alleviate all of our sufferings and fulfill our needs.
However, since we are not solely material creatures, it is a mistake to place all our hopes for happiness on external development alone. Instead, we should consider our origins and nature to discover what we require.
Leaving aside the complex question of the creation and evolution of our universe, we can at least agree that each of us is the product of our own parents. In general, our conception took place not just in the context of sexual desire but from our parents' decision to have a child. Such decisions are founded on responsibility and altruism - the parents compassionate commitment to care of their child until it is able to take care of itself. Thus, from the very moment of our conception, our parents' love is directly in our creation.
Moreover, we are completely dependent upon our mothers' care from the earliest stages of our growth. According to some scientists, a pregnant woman's mental state, be it calm or agitated, has a direct physical effect on her unborn child.
The expression of love is also very important at the time of birth. Since the very first thing we do is suck milk from our mothers' breast, we naturally feel close to her, and she must feel love for us in order to feed us properly; if she feels anger or resentment her milk may not flow freely.
Then there is the critical period of brain development from the time of birth up to at least the age of three or four, during which time loving physical contact is the single most important factor for the normal growth of the child. If the child is not held, hugged, cuddled, or loved, its development will be impaired and its brain will not mature properly.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama blessing an expectant mother as he leaves his hotel in Narita on his way to Osaka, Japan on May 9, 2016. (Photo by Tenzin Choejor/OHHDL)
Since a child cannot survive without the care of others, love is its most important nourishment. The happiness of childhood, the allaying of the child's many fears and the healthy development of its self-confidence all depend directly upon love.
Nowadays, many children grow up in unhappy homes. If they do not receive proper affection, in later life they will rarely love their parents and, not infrequently, will find it hard to love others. This is very sad.
As children grow older and enter school, their need for support must be met by their teachers. If a teacher not only imparts academic education but also assumes responsibility for preparing students for life, his or her pupils will feel trust and respect and what has been taught will leave an indelible impression on their minds. On the other hand, subjects taught by a teacher who does not show true concern for his or her students' overall well-being will be regarded as temporary and not retained for long.
Similarly, if one is sick and being treated in hospital by a doctor who evinces a warm human feeling, one feels at ease and the doctors' desire to give the best possible care is itself curative, irrespective of the degree of his or her technical skill. On the other hand, if one's doctor lacks human feeling and displays an unfriendly expression, impatience or casual disregard, one will feel anxious, even if he or she is the most highly qualified doctor and the disease has been correctly diagnosed and the right medication prescribed. Inevitably, patients' feelings make a difference to the quality and completeness of their recovery.
Even when we engage in ordinary conversation in everyday life, if someone speaks with human feeling we enjoy listening, and respond accordingly; the whole conversation becomes interesting, however unimportant the topic may be. On the other hand, if a person speaks coldly or harshly, we feel uneasy and wish for a quick end to the interaction. From the least to the most important event, the affection and respect of others are vital for our happiness.
Recently I met a group of scientists in America who said that the rate of mental illness in their country was quite high-around twelve percent of the population. It became clear during our discussion that the main cause of depression was not a lack of material necessities but a deprivation of the affection of the others.
So, as you can see from everything I have written so far, one thing seems clear to me: whether or not we are consciously aware of it, from the day we are born, the need for human affection is in our very blood. Even if the affection comes from an animal or someone we would normally consider an enemy, both children and adults will naturally gravitate towards it.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama stops to talk to a group of school children on his way to the Provincial Offices in Bolzano, South Tyrol, Italy, on April 10, 2013.(Photo by Jeremy Russell/OHHDL)
I believe that no one is born free from the need for love. And this demonstrates that, although some modern schools of thought seek to do so, human beings cannot be defined as solely physical. No material object, however beautiful or valuable, can make us feel loved, because our deeper identity and true character lie in the subjective nature of the mind.
Developing compassion
Some of my friends have told me that, while love and compassion are marvelous and good, they are not really very relevant. Our world, they say, is not a place where such beliefs have much influence or power. They claim that anger and hatred are so much a part of human nature that humanity will always be dominated by them. I do not agree.
We humans have existed in our present form for about a hundred-thousand years. I believe that if during this time the human mind had been primarily controlled by anger and hatred, our overall population would have decreased. But today, despite all our wars, we find that the human population is greater than ever. This clearly indicates to me that love and compassion predominate in the world. And this is why unpleasant events are news, compassionate activities are so much part of daily life that they are taken for granted and, therefore, largely ignored.
So far I have been discussing mainly the mental benefits of compassion, but it contributes to good physical health as well, According to my personal experience, mental stability and physical well-being are directly related. Without question, anger and agitation make us more susceptible to illness. On the other hand, if the mind is tranquil and occupied with positive thoughts, the body will not easily fall prey to disease.
But of course it is also true that we all have an innate self-centeredness that inhibits our love for others. So, since we desire the true happiness that is brought about by only a calm mind, and since such peace of mind is brought about by only a compassionate attitude, how can we develop this? Obviously, it is not enough for us simply to think about how nice compassion is! We need to make a concerted effort to develop it; we must use all the events of our daily life to transform our thoughts and behavior.
First of all, we must be clear about what we mean by compassion. Many forms of compassionate feeling are mixed with desire and attachment. For instance, the love parents feel of their child is often strongly associated with their own emotional needs, so it is not fully compassionate. Again, in marriage, the love between husband and wife - particularly at the beginning, when each partner still may not know the other's deeper character very well - depends more on attachment than genuine love. Our desire can be so strong that the person to whom we are attached appears to be good, when in fact he or she is very negative. In addition, we have a tendency to exaggerate small positive qualities. Thus when one partner's attitude changes, the other partner is often disappointed and his or her attitude changes too. This is an indication that love has been motivated more by personal need than by genuine care for the other individual.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama greeting a young girl during his visit to Vancouver, BC, Canada on October 22, 2014. (Photo by Jeremy Russell/OHHDL)
True compassion is not just an emotional response but a firm commitment founded on reason. Therefore, a truly compassionate attitude towards others does not change even if they behave negatively.
Of course, developing this kind of compassion is not at all easy! As a start, let us consider the following facts:
Whether people are beautiful and friendly or unattractive and disruptive, ultimately they are human beings, just like oneself. Like oneself, they want happiness and do not want suffering. Furthermore, their right to overcome suffering and be happy is equal to one's own. Now, when you recognize that all beings are equal in both their desire for happiness and their right to obtain it, you automatically feel empathy and closeness for them. Through accustoming your mind to this sense of universal altruism, you develop a feeling of responsibility for others: the wish to help them actively overcome their problems. Nor is this wish selective; it applies equally to all. As long as they are human beings experiencing pleasure and pain just as you do, there is no logical basis to discriminate between them or to alter your concern for them if they behave negatively.
Let me emphasize that it is within your power, given patience and time, to develop this kind of compassion. Of course, our self-centeredness, our distinctive attachment to the feeling of an independent, self-existent �I�, works fundamentally to inhibit our compassion. Indeed, true compassion can be experienced only when this type of self- grasping is eliminated. But this does not mean that we cannot start and make progress now.
How can we start
We should begin by removing the greatest hindrances to compassion: anger and hatred. As we all know, these are extremely powerful emotions and they can overwhelm our entire mind. Nevertheless, they can be controlled. If, however, they are not, these negative emotions will plague us - with no extra effort on their part! - and impede our quest for the happiness of a loving mind.
So as a start, it is useful to investigate whether or not anger is of value. Sometimes, when we are discouraged by a difficult situation, anger does seem helpful, appearing to bring with it more energy, confidence and determination.
Here, though, we must examine our mental state carefully. While it is true that anger brings extra energy, if we explore the nature of this energy, we discover that it is blind: we cannot be sure whether its result will be positive or negative. This is because anger eclipses the best part of our brain: its rationality. So the energy of anger is almost always unreliable. It can cause an immense amount of destructive, unfortunate behavior. Moreover, if anger increases to the extreme, one becomes like a mad person, acting in ways that are as damaging to oneself as they are to others.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama joining students in a exercise talking about gratitude at John Oliver School in Vancouver, Canada on October 21, 2014. (Photo by Jeremy Russell/OHHDL)
It is possible, however, to develop an equally forceful but far more controlled energy with which to handle difficult situations.
This controlled energy comes not only from a compassionate attitude, but also from reason and patience. These are the most powerful antidotes to anger. Unfortunately, many people misjudge these qualities as signs of weakness. I believe the opposite to be true: that they are the true signs of inner strength. Compassion is by nature gentle, peaceful and soft, but it is very powerful. It is those who easily lose their patience who are insecure and unstable. Thus, to me, the arousal of anger is a direct sign of weakness.
So, when a problem first arises, try to remain humble and maintain a sincere attitude and be concerned that the outcome is fair. Of course, others may try to take advantage of you, and if your remaining detached only encourages unjust aggression, adopt a strong stand, This, however, should be done with compassion, and if it is necessary to express your views and take strong countermeasures, do so without anger or ill-intent.
You should realize that even though your opponents appear to be harming you, in the end, their destructive activity will damage only themselves. In order to check your own selfish impulse to retaliate, you should recall your desire to practice compassion and assume responsibility for helping prevent the other person from suffering the consequences of his or her acts.
Thus, because the measures you employ have been calmly chosen, they will be more effective, more accurate and more forceful. Retaliation based on the blind energy of anger seldom hits the target.
Friends and enemies
I must emphasize again that merely thinking that compassion and reason and patience are good will not be enough to develop them. We must wait for difficulties to arise and then attempt to practice them.
And who creates such opportunities? Not our friends, of course, but our enemies. They are the ones who give us the most trouble, So if we truly wish to learn, we should consider enemies to be our best teacher!
For a person who cherishes compassion and love, the practice of tolerance is essential, and for that, an enemy is indispensable. So we should feel grateful to our enemies, for it is they who can best help us develop a tranquil mind! Also, itis often the case in both personal and public life, that with a change in circumstances, enemies become friends.
So anger and hatred are always harmful, and unless we train our minds and work to reduce their negative force, they will continue to disturb us and disrupt our attempts to develop a calm mind. Anger and hatred are our real enemies. These are the forces we most need to confront and defeat, not the temporary enemies who appear intermittently throughout life.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama exchanging greetings with his old friend Archbishop Desmond Tutu on the Archbishop's arrival at the airport in Dharamsala, HP, India on April 18, 2015. (Photo by Tenzin Choejor/OHHDL)
Of course, it is natural and right that we all want friends. I often joke that if you really want to be selfish, you should be very altruistic! You should take good care of others, be concerned for their welfare, help them, serve them, make more friends, make more smiles, The result? When you yourself need help, you find plenty of helpers! If, on the other hand, you neglect the happiness of others, in the long term you will be the loser. And is friendship produced through quarrels and anger, jealousy and intense competitiveness? I do not think so. Only affection brings us genuine close friends.
In today's materialistic society, if you have money and power, you seem to have many friends. But they are not friends of yours; they are the friends of your money and power. When you lose your wealth and influence, you will find it very difficult to track these people down.
The trouble is that when things in the world go well for us, we become confident that we can manage by ourselves and feel we do not need friends, but as our status and health decline, we quickly realize how wrong we were. That is the moment when we learn who is really helpful and who is completely useless. So to prepare for that moment, to make genuine friends who will help us when the need arises, we ourselves must cultivate altruism!
Though sometimes people laugh when I say it, I myself always want more friends. I love smiles. Because of this I have the problem of knowing how to make more friends and how to get more smiles, in particular, genuine smiles. For there are many kinds of smile, such as sarcastic, artificial or diplomatic smiles. Many smiles produce no feeling of satisfaction, and sometimes they can even create suspicion or fear, can't they? But a genuine smile really gives us a feeling of freshness and is, I believe, unique to human beings. If these are the smiles we want, then we ourselves must create the reasons for them to appear.
Compassion and the world
In conclusion, I would like briefly to expand my thoughts beyond the topic of this short piece and make a wider point: individual happiness can contribute in a profound and effective way to the overall improvement of our entire human community.
Because we all share an identical need for love, it is possible to feel that anybody we meet, in whatever circumstances, is a brother or sister. No matter how new the face or how different the dress and behavior, there is no significant division between us and other people. It is foolish to dwell on external differences, because our basic natures are the same.
Ultimately, humanity is one and this small planet is our only home, If we are to protect this home of ours, each of us needs to experience a vivid sense of universal altruism. It is only this feeling that can remove the self-centered motives that cause people to deceive and misuse one another.
If you have a sincere and open heart, you naturally feel self- worth and confidence, and there is no need to be fearful of others.
I believe that at every level of society - familial, tribal, national and international - the key to a happier and more successful world is the growth of compassion. We do not need to become religious, nor do we need to believe in an ideology. All that is necessary is for each of us to develop our good human qualities.
I try to treat whoever I meet as an old friend. This gives me a genuine feeling of happiness. It is the practice of compassion
Tenzin Gyatso; The Fourteenth Dalai Lama
The purpose of life
ONE GREAT QUESTION underlies our experience, whether we think about it consciously or not: What is the purpose of life? I have considered this question and would like to share my thoughts in the hope that they may be of direct, practical benefit to those who read them.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama poses for photos after his interactive session with students at Princeton University's Chancellor Green Library in Princeton, New Jersey on October 28, 2014. (Photo by Denise Applewhite)
I believe that the purpose of life is to be happy. From the moment of birth, every human being wants happiness and does not want suffering. Neither social conditioning nor education nor ideology affect this. From the very core of our being, we simply desire contentment. I don't know whether the universe, with its countless galaxies, stars and planets, has a deeper meaning or not, but at the very least, it is clear that we humans who live on this earth face the task of making a happy life for ourselves. Therefore, it is important to discover what will bring about the greatest degree of happiness.
How to achieve happiness
For a start, it is possible to divide every kind of happiness and suffering into two main categories: mental and physical. Of the two, it is the mind that exerts the greatest influence on most of us. Unless we are either gravely ill or deprived of basic necessities, our physical condition plays a secondary role in life. If the body is content, we virtually ignore it. The mind, however, registers every event, no matter how small. Hence we should devote our most serious efforts to bringing about mental peace.
From my own limited experience I have found that the greatest degree of inner tranquility comes from the development of love and compassion.
The more we care for the happiness of others, the greater our own sense of well-being becomes. Cultivating a close, warm-hearted feeling for others automatically puts the mind at ease. This helps remove whatever fears or insecurities we may have and gives us the strength to cope with any obstacles we encounter. It is the ultimate source of success in life.
As long as we live in this world we are bound to encounter problems. If, at such times, we lose hope and become discouraged, we diminish our ability to face difficulties. If, on the other hand, we remember that it is not just ourselves but every one who has to undergo suffering, this more realistic perspective will increase our determination and capacity to overcome troubles. Indeed, with this attitude, each new obstacle can be seen as yet another valuable opportunity to improve our mind!
Thus we can strive gradually to become more compassionate, that is we can develop both genuine sympathy for others' suffering and the will to help remove their pain. As a result, our own serenity and inner strength will increase.
Our need for love
Ultimately, the reason why love and compassion bring the greatest happiness is simply that our nature cherishes them above all else. The need for love lies at the very foundation of human existence. It results from the profound interdependence we all share with one another. However capable and skillful an individual may be, left alone, he or she will not survive. However vigorous and independent one may feel during the most prosperous periods of life, when one is sick or very young or very old, one must depend on the support of others.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama comforting a young survivor during his visit to the Tsunami devastated region of Sendai, Japan on November 5, 2011. (Photo by Tenzin Choejor/OHHDL)
Inter-dependence, of course, is a fundamental law of nature. Not only higher forms of life but also many of the smallest insects are social beings who, without any religion, law or education, survive by mutual cooperation based on an innate recognition of their interconnectedness. The most subtle level of material phenomena is also governed by interdependence. All phenomena from the planet we inhabit to the oceans, clouds, forests and flowers that surround us, arise in dependence upon subtle patterns of energy. Without their proper interaction, they dissolve and decay.
It is because our own human existence is so dependent on the help of others that our need for love lies at the very foundation of our existence. Therefore we need a genuine sense of responsibility and a sincere concern for the welfare of others.
We have to consider what we human beings really are. We are not like machine-made objects. If we are merely mechanical entities, then machines themselves could alleviate all of our sufferings and fulfill our needs.
However, since we are not solely material creatures, it is a mistake to place all our hopes for happiness on external development alone. Instead, we should consider our origins and nature to discover what we require.
Leaving aside the complex question of the creation and evolution of our universe, we can at least agree that each of us is the product of our own parents. In general, our conception took place not just in the context of sexual desire but from our parents' decision to have a child. Such decisions are founded on responsibility and altruism - the parents compassionate commitment to care of their child until it is able to take care of itself. Thus, from the very moment of our conception, our parents' love is directly in our creation.
Moreover, we are completely dependent upon our mothers' care from the earliest stages of our growth. According to some scientists, a pregnant woman's mental state, be it calm or agitated, has a direct physical effect on her unborn child.
The expression of love is also very important at the time of birth. Since the very first thing we do is suck milk from our mothers' breast, we naturally feel close to her, and she must feel love for us in order to feed us properly; if she feels anger or resentment her milk may not flow freely.
Then there is the critical period of brain development from the time of birth up to at least the age of three or four, during which time loving physical contact is the single most important factor for the normal growth of the child. If the child is not held, hugged, cuddled, or loved, its development will be impaired and its brain will not mature properly.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama blessing an expectant mother as he leaves his hotel in Narita on his way to Osaka, Japan on May 9, 2016. (Photo by Tenzin Choejor/OHHDL)
Since a child cannot survive without the care of others, love is its most important nourishment. The happiness of childhood, the allaying of the child's many fears and the healthy development of its self-confidence all depend directly upon love.
Nowadays, many children grow up in unhappy homes. If they do not receive proper affection, in later life they will rarely love their parents and, not infrequently, will find it hard to love others. This is very sad.
As children grow older and enter school, their need for support must be met by their teachers. If a teacher not only imparts academic education but also assumes responsibility for preparing students for life, his or her pupils will feel trust and respect and what has been taught will leave an indelible impression on their minds. On the other hand, subjects taught by a teacher who does not show true concern for his or her students' overall well-being will be regarded as temporary and not retained for long.
Similarly, if one is sick and being treated in hospital by a doctor who evinces a warm human feeling, one feels at ease and the doctors' desire to give the best possible care is itself curative, irrespective of the degree of his or her technical skill. On the other hand, if one's doctor lacks human feeling and displays an unfriendly expression, impatience or casual disregard, one will feel anxious, even if he or she is the most highly qualified doctor and the disease has been correctly diagnosed and the right medication prescribed. Inevitably, patients' feelings make a difference to the quality and completeness of their recovery.
Even when we engage in ordinary conversation in everyday life, if someone speaks with human feeling we enjoy listening, and respond accordingly; the whole conversation becomes interesting, however unimportant the topic may be. On the other hand, if a person speaks coldly or harshly, we feel uneasy and wish for a quick end to the interaction. From the least to the most important event, the affection and respect of others are vital for our happiness.
Recently I met a group of scientists in America who said that the rate of mental illness in their country was quite high-around twelve percent of the population. It became clear during our discussion that the main cause of depression was not a lack of material necessities but a deprivation of the affection of the others.
So, as you can see from everything I have written so far, one thing seems clear to me: whether or not we are consciously aware of it, from the day we are born, the need for human affection is in our very blood. Even if the affection comes from an animal or someone we would normally consider an enemy, both children and adults will naturally gravitate towards it.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama stops to talk to a group of school children on his way to the Provincial Offices in Bolzano, South Tyrol, Italy, on April 10, 2013.(Photo by Jeremy Russell/OHHDL)
I believe that no one is born free from the need for love. And this demonstrates that, although some modern schools of thought seek to do so, human beings cannot be defined as solely physical. No material object, however beautiful or valuable, can make us feel loved, because our deeper identity and true character lie in the subjective nature of the mind.
Developing compassion
Some of my friends have told me that, while love and compassion are marvelous and good, they are not really very relevant. Our world, they say, is not a place where such beliefs have much influence or power. They claim that anger and hatred are so much a part of human nature that humanity will always be dominated by them. I do not agree.
We humans have existed in our present form for about a hundred-thousand years. I believe that if during this time the human mind had been primarily controlled by anger and hatred, our overall population would have decreased. But today, despite all our wars, we find that the human population is greater than ever. This clearly indicates to me that love and compassion predominate in the world. And this is why unpleasant events are news, compassionate activities are so much part of daily life that they are taken for granted and, therefore, largely ignored.
So far I have been discussing mainly the mental benefits of compassion, but it contributes to good physical health as well, According to my personal experience, mental stability and physical well-being are directly related. Without question, anger and agitation make us more susceptible to illness. On the other hand, if the mind is tranquil and occupied with positive thoughts, the body will not easily fall prey to disease.
But of course it is also true that we all have an innate self-centeredness that inhibits our love for others. So, since we desire the true happiness that is brought about by only a calm mind, and since such peace of mind is brought about by only a compassionate attitude, how can we develop this? Obviously, it is not enough for us simply to think about how nice compassion is! We need to make a concerted effort to develop it; we must use all the events of our daily life to transform our thoughts and behavior.
First of all, we must be clear about what we mean by compassion. Many forms of compassionate feeling are mixed with desire and attachment. For instance, the love parents feel of their child is often strongly associated with their own emotional needs, so it is not fully compassionate. Again, in marriage, the love between husband and wife - particularly at the beginning, when each partner still may not know the other's deeper character very well - depends more on attachment than genuine love. Our desire can be so strong that the person to whom we are attached appears to be good, when in fact he or she is very negative. In addition, we have a tendency to exaggerate small positive qualities. Thus when one partner's attitude changes, the other partner is often disappointed and his or her attitude changes too. This is an indication that love has been motivated more by personal need than by genuine care for the other individual.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama greeting a young girl during his visit to Vancouver, BC, Canada on October 22, 2014. (Photo by Jeremy Russell/OHHDL)
True compassion is not just an emotional response but a firm commitment founded on reason. Therefore, a truly compassionate attitude towards others does not change even if they behave negatively.
Of course, developing this kind of compassion is not at all easy! As a start, let us consider the following facts:
Whether people are beautiful and friendly or unattractive and disruptive, ultimately they are human beings, just like oneself. Like oneself, they want happiness and do not want suffering. Furthermore, their right to overcome suffering and be happy is equal to one's own. Now, when you recognize that all beings are equal in both their desire for happiness and their right to obtain it, you automatically feel empathy and closeness for them. Through accustoming your mind to this sense of universal altruism, you develop a feeling of responsibility for others: the wish to help them actively overcome their problems. Nor is this wish selective; it applies equally to all. As long as they are human beings experiencing pleasure and pain just as you do, there is no logical basis to discriminate between them or to alter your concern for them if they behave negatively.
Let me emphasize that it is within your power, given patience and time, to develop this kind of compassion. Of course, our self-centeredness, our distinctive attachment to the feeling of an independent, self-existent �I�, works fundamentally to inhibit our compassion. Indeed, true compassion can be experienced only when this type of self- grasping is eliminated. But this does not mean that we cannot start and make progress now.
How can we start
We should begin by removing the greatest hindrances to compassion: anger and hatred. As we all know, these are extremely powerful emotions and they can overwhelm our entire mind. Nevertheless, they can be controlled. If, however, they are not, these negative emotions will plague us - with no extra effort on their part! - and impede our quest for the happiness of a loving mind.
So as a start, it is useful to investigate whether or not anger is of value. Sometimes, when we are discouraged by a difficult situation, anger does seem helpful, appearing to bring with it more energy, confidence and determination.
Here, though, we must examine our mental state carefully. While it is true that anger brings extra energy, if we explore the nature of this energy, we discover that it is blind: we cannot be sure whether its result will be positive or negative. This is because anger eclipses the best part of our brain: its rationality. So the energy of anger is almost always unreliable. It can cause an immense amount of destructive, unfortunate behavior. Moreover, if anger increases to the extreme, one becomes like a mad person, acting in ways that are as damaging to oneself as they are to others.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama joining students in a exercise talking about gratitude at John Oliver School in Vancouver, Canada on October 21, 2014. (Photo by Jeremy Russell/OHHDL)
It is possible, however, to develop an equally forceful but far more controlled energy with which to handle difficult situations.
This controlled energy comes not only from a compassionate attitude, but also from reason and patience. These are the most powerful antidotes to anger. Unfortunately, many people misjudge these qualities as signs of weakness. I believe the opposite to be true: that they are the true signs of inner strength. Compassion is by nature gentle, peaceful and soft, but it is very powerful. It is those who easily lose their patience who are insecure and unstable. Thus, to me, the arousal of anger is a direct sign of weakness.
So, when a problem first arises, try to remain humble and maintain a sincere attitude and be concerned that the outcome is fair. Of course, others may try to take advantage of you, and if your remaining detached only encourages unjust aggression, adopt a strong stand, This, however, should be done with compassion, and if it is necessary to express your views and take strong countermeasures, do so without anger or ill-intent.
You should realize that even though your opponents appear to be harming you, in the end, their destructive activity will damage only themselves. In order to check your own selfish impulse to retaliate, you should recall your desire to practice compassion and assume responsibility for helping prevent the other person from suffering the consequences of his or her acts.
Thus, because the measures you employ have been calmly chosen, they will be more effective, more accurate and more forceful. Retaliation based on the blind energy of anger seldom hits the target.
Friends and enemies
I must emphasize again that merely thinking that compassion and reason and patience are good will not be enough to develop them. We must wait for difficulties to arise and then attempt to practice them.
And who creates such opportunities? Not our friends, of course, but our enemies. They are the ones who give us the most trouble, So if we truly wish to learn, we should consider enemies to be our best teacher!
For a person who cherishes compassion and love, the practice of tolerance is essential, and for that, an enemy is indispensable. So we should feel grateful to our enemies, for it is they who can best help us develop a tranquil mind! Also, itis often the case in both personal and public life, that with a change in circumstances, enemies become friends.
So anger and hatred are always harmful, and unless we train our minds and work to reduce their negative force, they will continue to disturb us and disrupt our attempts to develop a calm mind. Anger and hatred are our real enemies. These are the forces we most need to confront and defeat, not the temporary enemies who appear intermittently throughout life.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama exchanging greetings with his old friend Archbishop Desmond Tutu on the Archbishop's arrival at the airport in Dharamsala, HP, India on April 18, 2015. (Photo by Tenzin Choejor/OHHDL)
Of course, it is natural and right that we all want friends. I often joke that if you really want to be selfish, you should be very altruistic! You should take good care of others, be concerned for their welfare, help them, serve them, make more friends, make more smiles, The result? When you yourself need help, you find plenty of helpers! If, on the other hand, you neglect the happiness of others, in the long term you will be the loser. And is friendship produced through quarrels and anger, jealousy and intense competitiveness? I do not think so. Only affection brings us genuine close friends.
In today's materialistic society, if you have money and power, you seem to have many friends. But they are not friends of yours; they are the friends of your money and power. When you lose your wealth and influence, you will find it very difficult to track these people down.
The trouble is that when things in the world go well for us, we become confident that we can manage by ourselves and feel we do not need friends, but as our status and health decline, we quickly realize how wrong we were. That is the moment when we learn who is really helpful and who is completely useless. So to prepare for that moment, to make genuine friends who will help us when the need arises, we ourselves must cultivate altruism!
Though sometimes people laugh when I say it, I myself always want more friends. I love smiles. Because of this I have the problem of knowing how to make more friends and how to get more smiles, in particular, genuine smiles. For there are many kinds of smile, such as sarcastic, artificial or diplomatic smiles. Many smiles produce no feeling of satisfaction, and sometimes they can even create suspicion or fear, can't they? But a genuine smile really gives us a feeling of freshness and is, I believe, unique to human beings. If these are the smiles we want, then we ourselves must create the reasons for them to appear.
Compassion and the world
In conclusion, I would like briefly to expand my thoughts beyond the topic of this short piece and make a wider point: individual happiness can contribute in a profound and effective way to the overall improvement of our entire human community.
Because we all share an identical need for love, it is possible to feel that anybody we meet, in whatever circumstances, is a brother or sister. No matter how new the face or how different the dress and behavior, there is no significant division between us and other people. It is foolish to dwell on external differences, because our basic natures are the same.
Ultimately, humanity is one and this small planet is our only home, If we are to protect this home of ours, each of us needs to experience a vivid sense of universal altruism. It is only this feeling that can remove the self-centered motives that cause people to deceive and misuse one another.
If you have a sincere and open heart, you naturally feel self- worth and confidence, and there is no need to be fearful of others.
I believe that at every level of society - familial, tribal, national and international - the key to a happier and more successful world is the growth of compassion. We do not need to become religious, nor do we need to believe in an ideology. All that is necessary is for each of us to develop our good human qualities.
I try to treat whoever I meet as an old friend. This gives me a genuine feeling of happiness. It is the practice of compassion
Dalai Lama identifies the reincarnation of Mongolia’s spiritual leader – a preview of tensions around finding his own replacement
(The Conversation) — More than 5,600 people had gathered for a March 2023 ceremony in Dharamsala, India, when the Dalai Lama indicated toward a young child beside him.
According to the Dalai Lama’s website, the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism identified the boy as the latest reincarnation of the Khalkha Jetsun Dhampa Rinpoché, the faith’s leader in Mongolia. The previous Khalkha Jetsun Dhampa, the ninth to hold the title, died in 2012.
Due to the tense relations between the Dalai Lama and the Chinese government, however, recognizing someone as the reincarnation of a Buddhist figure is not only religiously significant, but politically fraught. After annexing Tibet in the 1950s, China has sought control over the spiritual lineages of Buddhist leaders, particularly the Dalai Lama himself. In 2011, the Chinese foreign ministry declared that only the government in Beijing can appoint the next dalai lama and that no recognition should be given to any other candidate.
The current and 14th dalai lama, Tenzin Gyatso, will be 88 in July 2023, and the Khalkha Jetsun Dhampa in Mongolia is traditionally one of the Buddhist leaders who recognizes the dalai lama’s successor.
The dalai lamas in Tibetan Buddhism
All dalai lamas are thought to be manifestations of the bodhisattva of compassion, Avalokitesvara. Bodhisattvas are beings who work solely for the benefit of others.
For Buddhists, the ultimate goal is enlightenment, or “nirvana” – a liberation from the cycle of birth and death. East Asian and Tibetan Buddhists, as part of the Mahayana sect, believe bodhisattvas have reached this highest realization.
Furthermore, Mahayana Buddhists believe bodhisattvas choose to be reborn, to experience the pain and suffering of the world, in order to help other beings attain enlightenment.
Tibetan Buddhism has developed this idea of the bodhisattva further into identified lineages of rebirths called “tulkus.” Any person who is believed to be a reborn teacher, master or leader is considered a tulku. Tibetan Buddhism has hundreds if not thousands of such lineages, but the most respected and well-known is the dalai lama. The 14 generations of dalai lamas, spanning six centuries, are linked through their acts of compassion and their wish to benefit all living beings.
Locating the 14th dalai lamaThe current Dalai Lama was enthroned when he was about 4 years old and was renamed Tenzin Gyatso.
An undated photo of the future Dalai Lama of Tibetan Buddhism, born Lhamo Dhondrub on July 6, 1935, in the small village of Takster in northeastern Tibet.AP Photo
The search for him began soon after the 13th Dalai Lama died. Disciples closest to the Dalai Lama set about to identify signs indicating the location of his rebirth.
There are usually predictions about where and when a dalai lama will be reborn, but further tests and signs are required to ensure the proper child is found.
In the case of the 13th Dalai Lama, after his death his body lay facing south. However, after a few days his head had tilted to the east and a fungus, viewed as unusual, appeared on the northeastern side of the shrine, where his body was kept. This was interpreted to mean that the next dalai lama could have been born somewhere in the northeastern part of Tibet.
Disciples also checked Lhamoi Latso, a lake that is traditionally used to see visions of the location of the dalai lama’s rebirth.
The district of Dokham, which is in the northeast of Tibet, matched all of these signs. A 2-year-old boy named Lhamo Dhondup was just the right age for a reincarnation of the 13th dalai lama, based on the time of his death.
When the search party consisting of the 13th dalai lama’s closest monastic attendants arrived at his house, they believed they recognized signs that confirmed that they had reached the right place.
Dalai lama memoirsThe 14th Dalai Lama recounts in his memoirs about his early life that he remembered recognizing one of the monks in the search party, even though he was dressed as a servant. To prevent any manipulation of the process, members of the search party had not shown villagers who they were.
The Dalai Lama remembered as a little boy asking for the rosary beads that monk had worn around his neck. These beads were previously owned by the 13th Dalai Lama. After this meeting, the search party came back again to test the young boy with further objects of the previous Dalai Lama. He was said to have correctly chosen all items, including a drum used for rituals and a walking stick.
China and dalai lama
Today the selection process for the next dalai lama remains uncertain. In 1950 China’s communist government invaded Tibet, which it insists has always belonged to China. The Dalai Lama fled in 1959 and set up a government in exile. The Dalai Lama is revered by Tibetan people, who have maintained their devotion over the past 70 years of Chinese rule.
In 1995 the Chinese government detained the Dalai Lama’s choice for the successor of the 10th Panchen Lama, named Gendun Choeki Nyima, when he was 6 years old. Since then China has refused to give details of his whereabouts. Panchen lama is the second most important tulku lineage in Tibetan Buddhism.
The Tibetan people revolted when the newly selected 11th Panchen Lama was detained. The Chinese government responded by appointing its own Panchen Lama, the son of a Chinese security officer. The panchen lamas and dalai lamas have historically played major roles in recognizing each other’s next incarnations.
China also wants to appoint its own dalai lama. But it is important to Tibetan Buddhists that they are in charge of the selection process.
Future options
Because of the threat from China, the 14th Dalai Lama has made a number of statements that would make it difficult for a Chinese-appointed 15th dalai lama to be seen as legitimate.
For example, he has stated that the institution of the dalai lama might not be needed anymore. However, he has also said it is up to the people if they want to preserve this aspect of Tibetan Buddhism and continue the dalai lama lineage. The Dalai Lama has indicated that he will decide, on turning 90 in four years’ time, whether he will be reborn.
Another option the Dalai Lama has proposed is announcing his next reincarnation before he dies. In this scenario, the Dalai Lama would transfer his spiritual realization to the successor. A third alternative Tenzin Gyatso has articulated is that if he dies outside of Tibet, and the Panchen Lama remains missing, his reincarnation would be located abroad, most likely in India. Experts believe the Chinese government’s search, however, would take place in Tibet, led by the Chinese-appointed panchen lama.
Finally, he has mentioned the possibility of being reborn as a woman – but he added in interviews in 2015 and 2019 that he would have to be a very beautiful woman. After this comment received widespread criticism in 2019, his office released a statement of apology and regret for the hurt he had caused.
The Dalai Lama is confident that no one would trust the Chinese government’s choice. The Tibetan people, as he has said, would never accept a Chinese-appointed dalai lama.
The U.S. government has expressed support for the Dalai Lama. In December 2020, the U.S. Senate passed the Tibetan Policy and Support Act, which recognizes the autonomy of the Tibetan people. The Biden administration reiterated in March 2021 that the Chinese government should have no role in the Dalai Lama’s succession.
No matter the outcome, I believe the process of finding the 15th Dalai Lama will certainly be different. It will likely take place outside of Tibet and under the watch of international media and a global Tibetan diaspora – with much at stake.
This is an updated version of an article originally published on July 3, 2019.
(Brooke Schedneck, Assistant Professor of Religious Studies, Rhodes College. The views expressed in this commentary do not necessarily reflect those of Religion News Service.)
(The Conversation) — More than 5,600 people had gathered for a March 2023 ceremony in Dharamsala, India, when the Dalai Lama indicated toward a young child beside him.
According to the Dalai Lama’s website, the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism identified the boy as the latest reincarnation of the Khalkha Jetsun Dhampa Rinpoché, the faith’s leader in Mongolia. The previous Khalkha Jetsun Dhampa, the ninth to hold the title, died in 2012.
Due to the tense relations between the Dalai Lama and the Chinese government, however, recognizing someone as the reincarnation of a Buddhist figure is not only religiously significant, but politically fraught. After annexing Tibet in the 1950s, China has sought control over the spiritual lineages of Buddhist leaders, particularly the Dalai Lama himself. In 2011, the Chinese foreign ministry declared that only the government in Beijing can appoint the next dalai lama and that no recognition should be given to any other candidate.
The current and 14th dalai lama, Tenzin Gyatso, will be 88 in July 2023, and the Khalkha Jetsun Dhampa in Mongolia is traditionally one of the Buddhist leaders who recognizes the dalai lama’s successor.
The dalai lamas in Tibetan Buddhism
All dalai lamas are thought to be manifestations of the bodhisattva of compassion, Avalokitesvara. Bodhisattvas are beings who work solely for the benefit of others.
For Buddhists, the ultimate goal is enlightenment, or “nirvana” – a liberation from the cycle of birth and death. East Asian and Tibetan Buddhists, as part of the Mahayana sect, believe bodhisattvas have reached this highest realization.
Furthermore, Mahayana Buddhists believe bodhisattvas choose to be reborn, to experience the pain and suffering of the world, in order to help other beings attain enlightenment.
Tibetan Buddhism has developed this idea of the bodhisattva further into identified lineages of rebirths called “tulkus.” Any person who is believed to be a reborn teacher, master or leader is considered a tulku. Tibetan Buddhism has hundreds if not thousands of such lineages, but the most respected and well-known is the dalai lama. The 14 generations of dalai lamas, spanning six centuries, are linked through their acts of compassion and their wish to benefit all living beings.
Locating the 14th dalai lamaThe current Dalai Lama was enthroned when he was about 4 years old and was renamed Tenzin Gyatso.
An undated photo of the future Dalai Lama of Tibetan Buddhism, born Lhamo Dhondrub on July 6, 1935, in the small village of Takster in northeastern Tibet.AP Photo
The search for him began soon after the 13th Dalai Lama died. Disciples closest to the Dalai Lama set about to identify signs indicating the location of his rebirth.
There are usually predictions about where and when a dalai lama will be reborn, but further tests and signs are required to ensure the proper child is found.
In the case of the 13th Dalai Lama, after his death his body lay facing south. However, after a few days his head had tilted to the east and a fungus, viewed as unusual, appeared on the northeastern side of the shrine, where his body was kept. This was interpreted to mean that the next dalai lama could have been born somewhere in the northeastern part of Tibet.
Disciples also checked Lhamoi Latso, a lake that is traditionally used to see visions of the location of the dalai lama’s rebirth.
The district of Dokham, which is in the northeast of Tibet, matched all of these signs. A 2-year-old boy named Lhamo Dhondup was just the right age for a reincarnation of the 13th dalai lama, based on the time of his death.
When the search party consisting of the 13th dalai lama’s closest monastic attendants arrived at his house, they believed they recognized signs that confirmed that they had reached the right place.
Dalai lama memoirsThe 14th Dalai Lama recounts in his memoirs about his early life that he remembered recognizing one of the monks in the search party, even though he was dressed as a servant. To prevent any manipulation of the process, members of the search party had not shown villagers who they were.
The Dalai Lama remembered as a little boy asking for the rosary beads that monk had worn around his neck. These beads were previously owned by the 13th Dalai Lama. After this meeting, the search party came back again to test the young boy with further objects of the previous Dalai Lama. He was said to have correctly chosen all items, including a drum used for rituals and a walking stick.
China and dalai lama
Today the selection process for the next dalai lama remains uncertain. In 1950 China’s communist government invaded Tibet, which it insists has always belonged to China. The Dalai Lama fled in 1959 and set up a government in exile. The Dalai Lama is revered by Tibetan people, who have maintained their devotion over the past 70 years of Chinese rule.
In 1995 the Chinese government detained the Dalai Lama’s choice for the successor of the 10th Panchen Lama, named Gendun Choeki Nyima, when he was 6 years old. Since then China has refused to give details of his whereabouts. Panchen lama is the second most important tulku lineage in Tibetan Buddhism.
The Tibetan people revolted when the newly selected 11th Panchen Lama was detained. The Chinese government responded by appointing its own Panchen Lama, the son of a Chinese security officer. The panchen lamas and dalai lamas have historically played major roles in recognizing each other’s next incarnations.
China also wants to appoint its own dalai lama. But it is important to Tibetan Buddhists that they are in charge of the selection process.
Future options
Because of the threat from China, the 14th Dalai Lama has made a number of statements that would make it difficult for a Chinese-appointed 15th dalai lama to be seen as legitimate.
For example, he has stated that the institution of the dalai lama might not be needed anymore. However, he has also said it is up to the people if they want to preserve this aspect of Tibetan Buddhism and continue the dalai lama lineage. The Dalai Lama has indicated that he will decide, on turning 90 in four years’ time, whether he will be reborn.
Another option the Dalai Lama has proposed is announcing his next reincarnation before he dies. In this scenario, the Dalai Lama would transfer his spiritual realization to the successor. A third alternative Tenzin Gyatso has articulated is that if he dies outside of Tibet, and the Panchen Lama remains missing, his reincarnation would be located abroad, most likely in India. Experts believe the Chinese government’s search, however, would take place in Tibet, led by the Chinese-appointed panchen lama.
Finally, he has mentioned the possibility of being reborn as a woman – but he added in interviews in 2015 and 2019 that he would have to be a very beautiful woman. After this comment received widespread criticism in 2019, his office released a statement of apology and regret for the hurt he had caused.
The Dalai Lama is confident that no one would trust the Chinese government’s choice. The Tibetan people, as he has said, would never accept a Chinese-appointed dalai lama.
The U.S. government has expressed support for the Dalai Lama. In December 2020, the U.S. Senate passed the Tibetan Policy and Support Act, which recognizes the autonomy of the Tibetan people. The Biden administration reiterated in March 2021 that the Chinese government should have no role in the Dalai Lama’s succession.
No matter the outcome, I believe the process of finding the 15th Dalai Lama will certainly be different. It will likely take place outside of Tibet and under the watch of international media and a global Tibetan diaspora – with much at stake.
This is an updated version of an article originally published on July 3, 2019.
(Brooke Schedneck, Assistant Professor of Religious Studies, Rhodes College. The views expressed in this commentary do not necessarily reflect those of Religion News Service.)
Tibetans in exile offer prayers in Dharamshala for Dalai Lama’s long lifeApr 06, 2023, 01:36PM ISTSource: ANITibetans in exile offered prayers for the long life of Dalai Lama in Dharamshala on April 5. Thousands of Tibetans and others including Mongolians attended the prayer ceremony. Dalai Lama also attended the prayer meeting ceremony and blessed his followers.
Mongolians celebrate and fear for an 8-year old boy as Dalai Lama names him their next spiritual leaderThe Dalai Lama announcing a 8-year old Mongolian boy as the next Khalkha Jetsun Dhampa Riponche, the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhists in Mongolia. Screenshot from WION YouTube channel.
March 2023 was an exciting month for Buddhists in Mongolia. On March 8, around 600 of them attended a special ceremony in a temple located in Dharamsala, India, where the Dalai Lama named an eight-year old Mongolian boy the 10th Khalkha Jetsun Dhampa Rinpoché. This title is given to the third most important spiritual leader in Tibetan Buddhism, who acts as the leader of the faith in Mongolia, a predominantly Buddhist country.
“We have the reincarnation of Khalkha Jetsun Dhampa Rinpoche of Mongolia with us today,” the Dalai Lama told the crowd present at the ceremony. The excitement was palpable thousands of kilometers away in Mongolia. The previous Jetsun Dhampa spent only the last year of his life in Mongolia, after moving there from India, where he lived most of his life in anonymity and exile. He was not safe in his home country of Tibet, due to the Chinese occupation of the region. Life in the communist Mongolia, where the authorities propagated atheism, was not a viable option.
The joy and excitement are mixed with fear and anxiety, however, anticipating China's reaction to this development. The Chinese government views the Dalai Lama as a separatist and seeks to control Tibet’s population via its own appointed religious leaders. His previous visits to Mongolia were followed by threats and penalties levied by the Chinese government, hurting the Mongolian economy.
US-born, one of twins, and member of a rich and powerful family
There are few details known about the tenth Jetsun Dhampa.
He is reported to be eight years old and have been born in the US, meaning he has dual nationality, Mongolian and American. The Mongolian media has reported that the tenth Jetsun Dhampa is one of a pair of twin boys, named Aguidai and Achiltai Altannar, from a rich and powerful family. His father, Altannar Chinchulun, is an Associate Professor at the National University of Mongolia, where he teaches math.
His mother, Monkhnasan Narmandakh, is a national resources conglomerate executive. Her Facebook page suggests that she runs a mining company called Monpolymet Group and a construction company called Moncement. None of their social media pages contain any news about their son being named the tenth Jetsun Dhampa. The boy’s grandmother, Garamjav Tseden, is a former parliament member.
Here is a photo of they boy's mother on the cover of the Forbes Mongolia magazine, published on her Facebook page.
I was invited to be interviewed for Forbes Mongolia on their International Women’s month cover. Truly blessed to have my…
Posted by Nasaa Narmandakh on Monday, February 28, 2022
The existence of the tenth Jetsun Dhampa was announced in 2016 during the Dalai Lama’s visit to Mongolia, when he said that the search for him was already underway. Seven years after finally finding and meeting him, the Dalai Lama said the following words at the ceremony:
“His predecessors had a close association with the Krishnacharya lineage of Chakrasamvara. One of them established a monastery in Mongolia dedicated to its practice. So, his being here today is quite auspicious.”
He is expected to serve as the spiritual leader to approximately 1.7 million Buddhists in Mongolia, who make up more than half of the country’s population of 3.3 million.
Looming religious crisis in AsiaThe current Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, is the 14th in the lineage of spiritual and political leaders who have been ruling over Tibet for more than 600 years. Tibet’s independence ended in 1951 when China annexed it. Following the unsuccessful revolt against the Chinese occupation in 1959, the Dalai Lama fled to Dharamsala in northern India, where he set up a government-in-exile.
The Chinese grip over Tibet has tightened over the years, making his return to Tibet unlikely. For the Chinese authorities, the Dalai Lama is a separatist who wants to break Tibet away from China, although he has declared in the past that he only seeks a “meaningful autonomy.”
As the Dalai Lama, who is 87, nears the end of his life, the questions over his succession are growing, alongside fears that his death could lead to an unprecedented religious crisis. He has previously stated:
The person who reincarnates has sole legitimate authority over where and how he or she takes rebirth and how that reincarnation is to be recognized.
This means that the Dalai Lama will decide himself whether he will be reincarnated or not, and he has postponed that decision until he turns 90. Multiple ideas have come from the Dalai Lama regarding his successor, including that the next Dalai Lama will come from India, and that he may name his successor before dying.
Whatever succession scenario takes place, it is clear that it will not follow the centuries old tradition of searching for and finding the next Dalai Lama in Tibet. The Chinese government has enshrined into the law that the Communist Party will have a final say on the matter of succession and reincarnation of top level religious leaders in Tibet.
This YouTube video explains the relationship between China and Tibet and why the Chinese government views the Dalai Lama as a separatist.
The fears that China will not tolerate any Tibetan religious leaders appointed without its consent materialized in 1995. After the Dalai Lama named a small boy in Tibet, Gedhun Choekyi Nyima, as the 11th reincarnation of Panchen Lama, the second most important figure in the faith, Gedhun disappeared within three days. The Chinese authorities replaced him with a candidate of their own. This Panchen Lama will come in handy when the Dalai Lama dies, and he and other Communist Party appointed lamas are tasked with finding the next Dalai Lama.
However, the Dalai Lama has shared that he will leave the instructions on finding his successor to the Gaden Phodrang Foundation, a group dedicated to preserving and promoting Tibetan culture and supporting the Tibetan people in India. This has opened up the possibility that the 15th Dalai Lama will come from India, since the group has no access to Tibet. Thus, it is likely that there will be two Dalai Lamas in the future, one in Tibet and one in India.
A new player in Tibet–China relationsIn this context of uncertainty, the reincarnation of the 10th Jetsun Dhampa in Mongolia is especially important, given he will be one of the top lamas who will participate in all the activities related to searching for and recognizing the next Dalai Lama. Should the Dalai Lama die unexpectedly, he will remain as the sole legitimate religious figure, having been recognized by the Dalai Lama himself.
China definitely cannot be content with these developments. That is the reason why some Mongolians are anxious over its reaction, which has not come so far. The Chinese authorities have vehemently opposed Mongolia's interaction with the Dalai Lama, who has visited the country nine times between 1982 and 2016. Each visit was accompanied by strong calls from China to deny him entry and threats of serious consequences in case of disobedience.
The 2002 visit was followed by the closing of borders, and the 2006 visit saw the suspension of flights between the two countries and an increase of import tariffs. In 2016, after the Dalai Lama’s last visit, China froze negotiations for a USD 4.2 billion loan to Mongolia, forcing the Mongolian government to issue an apology and promise that the Dalai Lama would not visit Mongolia again.
This is expected, given China is Mongolia’s biggest and most important economic partner, accounting for more than 80 percent of total exports, 60 percent of imports and more than 40 percent of its GDP. With the emergence of Jetsun Dhampa in Mongolia, the relationship between these two countries moves toward a more even one, however. Mongolia has got not only a spiritual leader but a powerful trump card with which it can influence relations between Tibet and China
Mongolians celebrate and fear for an 8-year old boy as Dalai Lama names him their next spiritual leaderThe Dalai Lama announcing a 8-year old Mongolian boy as the next Khalkha Jetsun Dhampa Riponche, the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhists in Mongolia. Screenshot from WION YouTube channel.
March 2023 was an exciting month for Buddhists in Mongolia. On March 8, around 600 of them attended a special ceremony in a temple located in Dharamsala, India, where the Dalai Lama named an eight-year old Mongolian boy the 10th Khalkha Jetsun Dhampa Rinpoché. This title is given to the third most important spiritual leader in Tibetan Buddhism, who acts as the leader of the faith in Mongolia, a predominantly Buddhist country.
“We have the reincarnation of Khalkha Jetsun Dhampa Rinpoche of Mongolia with us today,” the Dalai Lama told the crowd present at the ceremony. The excitement was palpable thousands of kilometers away in Mongolia. The previous Jetsun Dhampa spent only the last year of his life in Mongolia, after moving there from India, where he lived most of his life in anonymity and exile. He was not safe in his home country of Tibet, due to the Chinese occupation of the region. Life in the communist Mongolia, where the authorities propagated atheism, was not a viable option.
The joy and excitement are mixed with fear and anxiety, however, anticipating China's reaction to this development. The Chinese government views the Dalai Lama as a separatist and seeks to control Tibet’s population via its own appointed religious leaders. His previous visits to Mongolia were followed by threats and penalties levied by the Chinese government, hurting the Mongolian economy.
US-born, one of twins, and member of a rich and powerful family
There are few details known about the tenth Jetsun Dhampa.
He is reported to be eight years old and have been born in the US, meaning he has dual nationality, Mongolian and American. The Mongolian media has reported that the tenth Jetsun Dhampa is one of a pair of twin boys, named Aguidai and Achiltai Altannar, from a rich and powerful family. His father, Altannar Chinchulun, is an Associate Professor at the National University of Mongolia, where he teaches math.
His mother, Monkhnasan Narmandakh, is a national resources conglomerate executive. Her Facebook page suggests that she runs a mining company called Monpolymet Group and a construction company called Moncement. None of their social media pages contain any news about their son being named the tenth Jetsun Dhampa. The boy’s grandmother, Garamjav Tseden, is a former parliament member.
Here is a photo of they boy's mother on the cover of the Forbes Mongolia magazine, published on her Facebook page.
I was invited to be interviewed for Forbes Mongolia on their International Women’s month cover. Truly blessed to have my…
Posted by Nasaa Narmandakh on Monday, February 28, 2022
The existence of the tenth Jetsun Dhampa was announced in 2016 during the Dalai Lama’s visit to Mongolia, when he said that the search for him was already underway. Seven years after finally finding and meeting him, the Dalai Lama said the following words at the ceremony:
“His predecessors had a close association with the Krishnacharya lineage of Chakrasamvara. One of them established a monastery in Mongolia dedicated to its practice. So, his being here today is quite auspicious.”
He is expected to serve as the spiritual leader to approximately 1.7 million Buddhists in Mongolia, who make up more than half of the country’s population of 3.3 million.
Looming religious crisis in AsiaThe current Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, is the 14th in the lineage of spiritual and political leaders who have been ruling over Tibet for more than 600 years. Tibet’s independence ended in 1951 when China annexed it. Following the unsuccessful revolt against the Chinese occupation in 1959, the Dalai Lama fled to Dharamsala in northern India, where he set up a government-in-exile.
The Chinese grip over Tibet has tightened over the years, making his return to Tibet unlikely. For the Chinese authorities, the Dalai Lama is a separatist who wants to break Tibet away from China, although he has declared in the past that he only seeks a “meaningful autonomy.”
As the Dalai Lama, who is 87, nears the end of his life, the questions over his succession are growing, alongside fears that his death could lead to an unprecedented religious crisis. He has previously stated:
The person who reincarnates has sole legitimate authority over where and how he or she takes rebirth and how that reincarnation is to be recognized.
This means that the Dalai Lama will decide himself whether he will be reincarnated or not, and he has postponed that decision until he turns 90. Multiple ideas have come from the Dalai Lama regarding his successor, including that the next Dalai Lama will come from India, and that he may name his successor before dying.
Whatever succession scenario takes place, it is clear that it will not follow the centuries old tradition of searching for and finding the next Dalai Lama in Tibet. The Chinese government has enshrined into the law that the Communist Party will have a final say on the matter of succession and reincarnation of top level religious leaders in Tibet.
This YouTube video explains the relationship between China and Tibet and why the Chinese government views the Dalai Lama as a separatist.
The fears that China will not tolerate any Tibetan religious leaders appointed without its consent materialized in 1995. After the Dalai Lama named a small boy in Tibet, Gedhun Choekyi Nyima, as the 11th reincarnation of Panchen Lama, the second most important figure in the faith, Gedhun disappeared within three days. The Chinese authorities replaced him with a candidate of their own. This Panchen Lama will come in handy when the Dalai Lama dies, and he and other Communist Party appointed lamas are tasked with finding the next Dalai Lama.
However, the Dalai Lama has shared that he will leave the instructions on finding his successor to the Gaden Phodrang Foundation, a group dedicated to preserving and promoting Tibetan culture and supporting the Tibetan people in India. This has opened up the possibility that the 15th Dalai Lama will come from India, since the group has no access to Tibet. Thus, it is likely that there will be two Dalai Lamas in the future, one in Tibet and one in India.
A new player in Tibet–China relationsIn this context of uncertainty, the reincarnation of the 10th Jetsun Dhampa in Mongolia is especially important, given he will be one of the top lamas who will participate in all the activities related to searching for and recognizing the next Dalai Lama. Should the Dalai Lama die unexpectedly, he will remain as the sole legitimate religious figure, having been recognized by the Dalai Lama himself.
China definitely cannot be content with these developments. That is the reason why some Mongolians are anxious over its reaction, which has not come so far. The Chinese authorities have vehemently opposed Mongolia's interaction with the Dalai Lama, who has visited the country nine times between 1982 and 2016. Each visit was accompanied by strong calls from China to deny him entry and threats of serious consequences in case of disobedience.
The 2002 visit was followed by the closing of borders, and the 2006 visit saw the suspension of flights between the two countries and an increase of import tariffs. In 2016, after the Dalai Lama’s last visit, China froze negotiations for a USD 4.2 billion loan to Mongolia, forcing the Mongolian government to issue an apology and promise that the Dalai Lama would not visit Mongolia again.
This is expected, given China is Mongolia’s biggest and most important economic partner, accounting for more than 80 percent of total exports, 60 percent of imports and more than 40 percent of its GDP. With the emergence of Jetsun Dhampa in Mongolia, the relationship between these two countries moves toward a more even one, however. Mongolia has got not only a spiritual leader but a powerful trump card with which it can influence relations between Tibet and China
15 Inspiring Quotes on Happiness You Need in Your Life Today
© Provided by The Female Professional What Is Happiness?
I’m sure this is something we’ve all questioned and wondered about throughout the years. Is happiness achieved with moments of laughter? Is it achieved with money? Maybe happiness is when you feel free and inspired. Or it might be having a Marvel and Lord of the Rings marathon one weekend.
Happiness can mean different things to everyone. We all strive for that feeling of peace and acceptance in our lives, but we all have those terrible days where we need something to inspire us to see the good and happiness around us. Happiness quotes can be inspiring; they can help us feel happier and inspire us to be successful.
These inspiring happiness quotes are a variety of quotes from some of our favorite movies and some from famous people that lead the way in the mindset and happiness subject. These quotes will help you feel happier. They’re sure to lift you up on the days you need them the most.
Happiness lies within us, and this article will show you how to find happiness in your life. Always believe in yourself.
Write down the quotes that spoke to you and keep them in a journal to have a tool that you can come back to anytime you feel like you need a little more motivation.
Happiness Quotes for Those Bad Days1. ‘All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given to us.’ – Gandalf the Grey
Gandalf the Grey reminds us that our lives, what we do with them, and the time we have here are up to us. We can get clear on our visions and goals and go after them. By deciding what we want to do, we can change the world around us and our dreams for our lives.
Live life to the fullest and know that you can always decide on a new path so you can reach happiness in your own life.
2. “Even the smallest person can change the course of the future.” — Galadriel
Sometimes our feelings of sadness come from comparing ourselves to others. That sadness can make us feel like we aren’t good enough or have enough quality or presence to make a change or pursue a dream.
Galadriel reminds us that even the smallest of things can make a big difference and inspire significant changes in our lives and other people’s lives.
In a world where social media is a part of our everyday lives, it’s easy to compare ourselves to the highlight reel of others.
Some things you can do to lessen the comparison game is to take a break from following accounts that don’t inspire you or make you feel good.
Take breaks from social media regularly. That is life-changing, and you will be so glad you did this. An example of this is letting your phone die on Friday night and not charging it again for 24 hours. The other thing you can do is delete the social media apps from your phone for 24 hours. If you do this a couple of times, you will find yourself repeating this quite regularly, and you will love it.
We need a break to enjoy the world around us and live in the moment, not social media.
3. “But in the end, it’s only a passing thing, this shadow; even darkness must pass.” — Sam Gamgee
No matter how dark, no matter how hard, it will pass. Sam Gamgee says it perfectly when speaking this line. It must pass. We all have storms that come and go; even when it feels so dark and lonely, know that you are not alone, and these circumstances will change.
We all have to weather our storms, and when they pass, they allow us to enjoy the sunshine a bit more, and it helps us cherish those moments of happiness when we have them.
If you’re feeling stuck, let the words of Sam Gamgee play again and again in your mind. You will get through these shadows and darkness, and there will be light again.
4. “You can’t stop change any more than you can stop the suns from setting.” – Shmi Skywalker
Change is inevitable; time and time again, you will find yourself with changes in your life, and sometimes change comes with feelings of fear and anxiety. Shmi Skywalker gives us a quote to remind us that change will happen whether we like it or not, and it’s best to embrace that change vs. time hiding from it or dwelling in feelings of fear.
Change opens new doors and lets us grow. A lot of times, amazing things are on the other side of fear and change. We develop, and we learn on the other side of changes.
5. “Your focus determines your reality.” – Qui-Gon Jinn
That is one of my favorite inspirational quotes, “your focus determines your reality.” It is so powerful, and I believe it to be very accurate. If you have a goal and a growth mindset (you know there is always an opportunity to learn and grow ), you will turn those goals into your reality as long as you stay focused.
There’s no question that if you stay focused and turn every failure into an opportunity and you take every “no” as fuel to reach your goal, you will, without a doubt, reach your goal.
8 Remedies For Managing Stress: The path you take to get there might look different than the one you imagined, but it will get you there.
6. “Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.” – Mahatma Gandhi.
When we are in harmony, we can feel it inside of ourselves. Gandhi reminds us that when we feel connected with the way we think, feel, and our actions, we know we are on the right path and following our destiny. We are doing what we’re meant to do. Happiness comes from that feeling inside that leaves us feeling satisfied and at peace.
One of our goals should be to become more aware of what we say, think, and do. Sometimes we can lose sight of things, and that will leave us feeling unbalanced.
7. “Happiness is not something ready-made. It comes from your own actions” – Dalai Lama.
Let’s not chase happiness and expect it to come by chance. Happiness is something we have the power to create with the things that we do. Dalai Lama reminds us to stop waiting for happiness to arrive. And take action to find happiness. That doesn’t have to be significant major changes but small steps and add up to a new happy life. This happiness quote is one to remember and always keep in mind.
8. “Folks are usually as happy they make their minds up to be.” Abraham Lincoln
I am a big believer in the power of our mindset. We have so much power in our thoughts that we can drastically change how we feel and the world around us. A lot of what goes on in our lives is impacted by the ideas in our minds if we decide that we will. If we focus on the good and that we will be happy, the world around us will change.
Our perception of the world is connected to the things we think.
9. “I refuse to accept other people’s idea of happiness for me. As if there is a ‘one size fits all standard for happiness.” – Kanye West
I love this quote from Kanye West. Our happiness may not look like someone else’s, and there is no one way to find the happiness you want. Our versions of happiness are different, and that’s ok. There is no one standard for happiness. Happiness is what you feel in your soul, and it’s made up of the actions and feelings that leave you feeling happy inside.
10. “When I get sad, I stop being sad and be awesome instead. True story.” – Barney from How I Met Your Mother.
I had to add this one in this article because, as funny as it is, it also speaks to the power of our mindset. Barney is quite a character who does not lack self-confidence. I’m not saying be like Barney, but there is something to be learned about his confidence and stubbornness to think is anything less than awesome.
11. “There is no path to happiness. Happiness is the path.” Guatama Buddha
Buddha is once again reminding us to enjoy the moments we are having right now. Enjoy the path that we take to what we think is happiness. Remember that happiness is not a destination, but we can find happiness while we walk our paths.
12. “Don’t cry because it happened. Smile because it happened.” – Author Unknown.
This happiness quote inspired me because it’s a normal reaction to dwell on what makes us cry. Usually, this leads us to hold onto thoughts of sadness and loneliness, but we also need to remember to look back on the happy memories. Sometimes we have to smile that we were on that path and remember that we need to move on and look back with happiness where we can.
13. “The happiest people don’t have the best of everything, they just make the best of everything they have.” – Author Unknown
This happiness quote is essential to remember because gratitude can have a powerful part in all our lives. When we practice compassion and gratitude, we can increase our mindset and attract more gratitude into our lives. Again, on our path to happiness, we need to be grateful for the things we have right now and not just wait for what we think we’re after. Happy people choose to be happy. To be happy, we need to forgive, be content, try to let go, smile more and search for the meaning of life that feels good to us inside.
14. “Happiness is an inside job. Don’t assign anyone else that much power.” – Mandy Hale
This quote is one always to remember when we feel down. It’s not anyone else’s job or responsibility to make us happy. Our happiness is up to us, no one else. We need to do the things that make us happy; we need to be around people who make us happy. This quote is accurate in the scene that no one else should even hold that much power over us. Our happiness is up to us.
15. “Happiness is nothing more than good health and a bad memory.” Albert Schweitzer
As we close out this article with the best happiness quotes, we are reminded to take care of ourselves and do everything to stay healthy. The second part of this quote is to let go of the past and look towards the future. Staying in the past and holding onto negative feelings will not do you any good.
Happiness consists of following our dreams, appreciating what we have, and showing compassion to others around us. It depends upon us and what we want.
Do more of the things that make you smile and the things that make you feel at peace. Follow the way you feel when you do something so you know you’re on the right path. The path is the one that is for you and your happiness.
This post originally appeared on Wealth of Geeks.
Read More From The Female Professional: The 14 Best Tropical Fruits Around The World To Try
© Provided by The Female Professional What Is Happiness?
I’m sure this is something we’ve all questioned and wondered about throughout the years. Is happiness achieved with moments of laughter? Is it achieved with money? Maybe happiness is when you feel free and inspired. Or it might be having a Marvel and Lord of the Rings marathon one weekend.
Happiness can mean different things to everyone. We all strive for that feeling of peace and acceptance in our lives, but we all have those terrible days where we need something to inspire us to see the good and happiness around us. Happiness quotes can be inspiring; they can help us feel happier and inspire us to be successful.
These inspiring happiness quotes are a variety of quotes from some of our favorite movies and some from famous people that lead the way in the mindset and happiness subject. These quotes will help you feel happier. They’re sure to lift you up on the days you need them the most.
Happiness lies within us, and this article will show you how to find happiness in your life. Always believe in yourself.
Write down the quotes that spoke to you and keep them in a journal to have a tool that you can come back to anytime you feel like you need a little more motivation.
Happiness Quotes for Those Bad Days1. ‘All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given to us.’ – Gandalf the Grey
Gandalf the Grey reminds us that our lives, what we do with them, and the time we have here are up to us. We can get clear on our visions and goals and go after them. By deciding what we want to do, we can change the world around us and our dreams for our lives.
Live life to the fullest and know that you can always decide on a new path so you can reach happiness in your own life.
2. “Even the smallest person can change the course of the future.” — Galadriel
Sometimes our feelings of sadness come from comparing ourselves to others. That sadness can make us feel like we aren’t good enough or have enough quality or presence to make a change or pursue a dream.
Galadriel reminds us that even the smallest of things can make a big difference and inspire significant changes in our lives and other people’s lives.
In a world where social media is a part of our everyday lives, it’s easy to compare ourselves to the highlight reel of others.
Some things you can do to lessen the comparison game is to take a break from following accounts that don’t inspire you or make you feel good.
Take breaks from social media regularly. That is life-changing, and you will be so glad you did this. An example of this is letting your phone die on Friday night and not charging it again for 24 hours. The other thing you can do is delete the social media apps from your phone for 24 hours. If you do this a couple of times, you will find yourself repeating this quite regularly, and you will love it.
We need a break to enjoy the world around us and live in the moment, not social media.
3. “But in the end, it’s only a passing thing, this shadow; even darkness must pass.” — Sam Gamgee
No matter how dark, no matter how hard, it will pass. Sam Gamgee says it perfectly when speaking this line. It must pass. We all have storms that come and go; even when it feels so dark and lonely, know that you are not alone, and these circumstances will change.
We all have to weather our storms, and when they pass, they allow us to enjoy the sunshine a bit more, and it helps us cherish those moments of happiness when we have them.
If you’re feeling stuck, let the words of Sam Gamgee play again and again in your mind. You will get through these shadows and darkness, and there will be light again.
4. “You can’t stop change any more than you can stop the suns from setting.” – Shmi Skywalker
Change is inevitable; time and time again, you will find yourself with changes in your life, and sometimes change comes with feelings of fear and anxiety. Shmi Skywalker gives us a quote to remind us that change will happen whether we like it or not, and it’s best to embrace that change vs. time hiding from it or dwelling in feelings of fear.
Change opens new doors and lets us grow. A lot of times, amazing things are on the other side of fear and change. We develop, and we learn on the other side of changes.
5. “Your focus determines your reality.” – Qui-Gon Jinn
That is one of my favorite inspirational quotes, “your focus determines your reality.” It is so powerful, and I believe it to be very accurate. If you have a goal and a growth mindset (you know there is always an opportunity to learn and grow ), you will turn those goals into your reality as long as you stay focused.
There’s no question that if you stay focused and turn every failure into an opportunity and you take every “no” as fuel to reach your goal, you will, without a doubt, reach your goal.
8 Remedies For Managing Stress: The path you take to get there might look different than the one you imagined, but it will get you there.
6. “Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.” – Mahatma Gandhi.
When we are in harmony, we can feel it inside of ourselves. Gandhi reminds us that when we feel connected with the way we think, feel, and our actions, we know we are on the right path and following our destiny. We are doing what we’re meant to do. Happiness comes from that feeling inside that leaves us feeling satisfied and at peace.
One of our goals should be to become more aware of what we say, think, and do. Sometimes we can lose sight of things, and that will leave us feeling unbalanced.
7. “Happiness is not something ready-made. It comes from your own actions” – Dalai Lama.
Let’s not chase happiness and expect it to come by chance. Happiness is something we have the power to create with the things that we do. Dalai Lama reminds us to stop waiting for happiness to arrive. And take action to find happiness. That doesn’t have to be significant major changes but small steps and add up to a new happy life. This happiness quote is one to remember and always keep in mind.
8. “Folks are usually as happy they make their minds up to be.” Abraham Lincoln
I am a big believer in the power of our mindset. We have so much power in our thoughts that we can drastically change how we feel and the world around us. A lot of what goes on in our lives is impacted by the ideas in our minds if we decide that we will. If we focus on the good and that we will be happy, the world around us will change.
Our perception of the world is connected to the things we think.
9. “I refuse to accept other people’s idea of happiness for me. As if there is a ‘one size fits all standard for happiness.” – Kanye West
I love this quote from Kanye West. Our happiness may not look like someone else’s, and there is no one way to find the happiness you want. Our versions of happiness are different, and that’s ok. There is no one standard for happiness. Happiness is what you feel in your soul, and it’s made up of the actions and feelings that leave you feeling happy inside.
10. “When I get sad, I stop being sad and be awesome instead. True story.” – Barney from How I Met Your Mother.
I had to add this one in this article because, as funny as it is, it also speaks to the power of our mindset. Barney is quite a character who does not lack self-confidence. I’m not saying be like Barney, but there is something to be learned about his confidence and stubbornness to think is anything less than awesome.
11. “There is no path to happiness. Happiness is the path.” Guatama Buddha
Buddha is once again reminding us to enjoy the moments we are having right now. Enjoy the path that we take to what we think is happiness. Remember that happiness is not a destination, but we can find happiness while we walk our paths.
12. “Don’t cry because it happened. Smile because it happened.” – Author Unknown.
This happiness quote inspired me because it’s a normal reaction to dwell on what makes us cry. Usually, this leads us to hold onto thoughts of sadness and loneliness, but we also need to remember to look back on the happy memories. Sometimes we have to smile that we were on that path and remember that we need to move on and look back with happiness where we can.
13. “The happiest people don’t have the best of everything, they just make the best of everything they have.” – Author Unknown
This happiness quote is essential to remember because gratitude can have a powerful part in all our lives. When we practice compassion and gratitude, we can increase our mindset and attract more gratitude into our lives. Again, on our path to happiness, we need to be grateful for the things we have right now and not just wait for what we think we’re after. Happy people choose to be happy. To be happy, we need to forgive, be content, try to let go, smile more and search for the meaning of life that feels good to us inside.
14. “Happiness is an inside job. Don’t assign anyone else that much power.” – Mandy Hale
This quote is one always to remember when we feel down. It’s not anyone else’s job or responsibility to make us happy. Our happiness is up to us, no one else. We need to do the things that make us happy; we need to be around people who make us happy. This quote is accurate in the scene that no one else should even hold that much power over us. Our happiness is up to us.
15. “Happiness is nothing more than good health and a bad memory.” Albert Schweitzer
As we close out this article with the best happiness quotes, we are reminded to take care of ourselves and do everything to stay healthy. The second part of this quote is to let go of the past and look towards the future. Staying in the past and holding onto negative feelings will not do you any good.
Happiness consists of following our dreams, appreciating what we have, and showing compassion to others around us. It depends upon us and what we want.
Do more of the things that make you smile and the things that make you feel at peace. Follow the way you feel when you do something so you know you’re on the right path. The path is the one that is for you and your happiness.
This post originally appeared on Wealth of Geeks.
Read More From The Female Professional: The 14 Best Tropical Fruits Around The World To Try
The Buddha and his teachings in Buddhism
The historical figure known as the Buddha was born a prince in a northern India kingdom around 2,500 years ago. His name was Siddhartha Gautama. The title ‘Buddha’ means ‘enlightened one’ or ‘one who is awake’. Siddhartha’s journey from prince to holy man to Buddha is the basis of Buddhism.
Childhood
Siddhartha’s father ruled a small kingdom and his mother was a princess of another clan. He was born into a life of luxury. At the celebration of his birth, it was predicted that Siddhartha would either become a great king or a great holy man.
The king wanted his son to inherit the kingdom. Therefore, he decided to prevent Siddhartha from becoming interested in the life of a holy man and the world outside the palace. The king ordered the young prince to be protected from all evidence of suffering and imperfection, including sickness, old age and death.
The Four Sights
As he grew, Siddhartha’s curiosity could not be contained. He felt that his life of luxury was empty. At the age of 29, he persuaded his chariot driver, Channa, to take him out of the palace to the city. There he encountered the Four Sights:
After Channa explained what the first three sights meant, Siddhartha was very shocked. Then, when he encountered the holy man (the fourth sight), he was struck by how calm and serene the holy man seemed amid the crowds and noise. From that point, Siddhartha knew that his own path would be understanding, not the privilege and responsibility of royalty.
Siddhartha becomes a holy man
Siddhartha left the palace at night, never to return. He left behind a young wife and son, as well as his father. Siddhartha’s decision to give up his life of comfort and ease was his first step to becoming a Buddha.
Siddhartha became an ascetic. He wandered and searched for truth, training with different teachers to learn yoga and meditation. Eventually, he became a teacher himself.
Siddhartha wanted to fully understand suffering. He fasted for long periods of time and did other things to cause himself to suffer. He fasted until he was near starvation, but then he realised that his death would help no one. He moved onto a more moderate path, one between luxury and poverty, which he called the Middle Way. All this time, he taught, meditated, discussed ideas with other people, and learned new things.
Enlightenment
Siddhartha had become a wise and popular teacher, able to journey into deep understanding of the nature of reality during periods of meditation. It is believed that Siddhartha achieved enlightenment while sitting under a Bodhi tree. This was when Siddhartha became the Buddha, an enlightened being or ‘one who is awake’.
The Buddha remained on Earth to communicate his insights and wisdom to others. Many Buddhists believe that Siddhartha was not the only Buddha, and that there will be others. His teachings are the basis of Buddhism.
Question: What were the Four Sights that Siddhartha Gautama saw?
Reveal answer: Siddhartha Gautama saw sickness, old age, death and a holy man.
==================================================================================================
The historical figure known as the Buddha was born a prince in a northern India kingdom around 2,500 years ago. His name was Siddhartha Gautama. The title ‘Buddha’ means ‘enlightened one’ or ‘one who is awake’. Siddhartha’s journey from prince to holy man to Buddha is the basis of Buddhism.
Childhood
Siddhartha’s father ruled a small kingdom and his mother was a princess of another clan. He was born into a life of luxury. At the celebration of his birth, it was predicted that Siddhartha would either become a great king or a great holy man.
The king wanted his son to inherit the kingdom. Therefore, he decided to prevent Siddhartha from becoming interested in the life of a holy man and the world outside the palace. The king ordered the young prince to be protected from all evidence of suffering and imperfection, including sickness, old age and death.
The Four Sights
As he grew, Siddhartha’s curiosity could not be contained. He felt that his life of luxury was empty. At the age of 29, he persuaded his chariot driver, Channa, to take him out of the palace to the city. There he encountered the Four Sights:
- An old person - Siddhartha had never before seen an old person. He asked his chariot driver, Channa, what he was looking at. Channa explained that when people get older, they physically decline.
- A sick person - when Siddhartha saw an ill person by the side of the road, he was upset as he had never before seen anyone who was ill. Channa explained that, during their lives, people get ill.
- A dead person - the third sight was a dead person being carried. Channa explained that everyone dies eventually.
- A holy man (ascetic), who lived a life of self-denial, was the fourth sight. This person made Siddhartha curious, because the holy man was looking to understand truth.
After Channa explained what the first three sights meant, Siddhartha was very shocked. Then, when he encountered the holy man (the fourth sight), he was struck by how calm and serene the holy man seemed amid the crowds and noise. From that point, Siddhartha knew that his own path would be understanding, not the privilege and responsibility of royalty.
Siddhartha becomes a holy man
Siddhartha left the palace at night, never to return. He left behind a young wife and son, as well as his father. Siddhartha’s decision to give up his life of comfort and ease was his first step to becoming a Buddha.
Siddhartha became an ascetic. He wandered and searched for truth, training with different teachers to learn yoga and meditation. Eventually, he became a teacher himself.
Siddhartha wanted to fully understand suffering. He fasted for long periods of time and did other things to cause himself to suffer. He fasted until he was near starvation, but then he realised that his death would help no one. He moved onto a more moderate path, one between luxury and poverty, which he called the Middle Way. All this time, he taught, meditated, discussed ideas with other people, and learned new things.
Enlightenment
Siddhartha had become a wise and popular teacher, able to journey into deep understanding of the nature of reality during periods of meditation. It is believed that Siddhartha achieved enlightenment while sitting under a Bodhi tree. This was when Siddhartha became the Buddha, an enlightened being or ‘one who is awake’.
The Buddha remained on Earth to communicate his insights and wisdom to others. Many Buddhists believe that Siddhartha was not the only Buddha, and that there will be others. His teachings are the basis of Buddhism.
Question: What were the Four Sights that Siddhartha Gautama saw?
Reveal answer: Siddhartha Gautama saw sickness, old age, death and a holy man.
==================================================================================================
Vesak: It’s Buddha’s birthday
Vesak (say "VEE-sak") is the most important day in the Buddhist calendar. It’s a holiday that celebrates the birth of Buddha. He's the person who began the religion known as Buddhism.
The day is also known as Wesak, Buddha Day or Buddha Burmina. It’s celebrated on the day of the full moon in May. It lands on different days depending on where you live in the world.
How is it celebrated
Vesak (say "VEE-sak") is the most important day in the Buddhist calendar. It’s a holiday that celebrates the birth of Buddha. He's the person who began the religion known as Buddhism.
The day is also known as Wesak, Buddha Day or Buddha Burmina. It’s celebrated on the day of the full moon in May. It lands on different days depending on where you live in the world.
How is it celebrated
(Ulet Ifansasti/Getty Images)
Buddhist monks place flowers at the Borobudur temple in Indonesia during Vesak celebrations.
People prepare for the holiday by cleaning and decorating their homes. The day Vesak arrives, Buddhists visit their temples and bring offerings of food, candles and flowers to the monks.
The monks chant, pray and teach lessons to everyone in attendance.
Buddhist monks place flowers at the Borobudur temple in Indonesia during Vesak celebrations.
People prepare for the holiday by cleaning and decorating their homes. The day Vesak arrives, Buddhists visit their temples and bring offerings of food, candles and flowers to the monks.
The monks chant, pray and teach lessons to everyone in attendance.
(Ulet Ifansasti/Getty Images)
A special ceremony called “bathing the Buddha” takes place on Vesak. During this ritual, people pour water over a statue of Buddha. It’s a way to show respect to Buddha for his teachings. It’s also a celebration of new beginnings.
Are there any other special traditions?
A special ceremony called “bathing the Buddha” takes place on Vesak. During this ritual, people pour water over a statue of Buddha. It’s a way to show respect to Buddha for his teachings. It’s also a celebration of new beginnings.
Are there any other special traditions?
(Ulet Ifansasti/Getty Images)
The holiday of Vesak focuses on giving to others. For this reason, people take part in acts of charity. To help others, they donate money and gifts to those in need. This is seen as a way to spread happiness and good will to others.
Do celebrations vary from country to country?
The holiday of Vesak focuses on giving to others. For this reason, people take part in acts of charity. To help others, they donate money and gifts to those in need. This is seen as a way to spread happiness and good will to others.
Do celebrations vary from country to country?
(Ulet Ifansasti/Getty Images)
Lanterns float in front of the Borobudur temple during celebrations for Vesak Day in Indonesia.
Depending on the country, there are a number of different traditions for Vesak.
In Thailand and Indonesia, special lanterns are made from paper and wood. Then they’re hung from houses and trees.
In China, there is a tradition of creating large, colourful dragons. They are carried through the streets in a parade.
Some countries release caged birds into the air. They symbolize that all creatures should be free and happy.
What else should I know about Buddha?
Lanterns float in front of the Borobudur temple during celebrations for Vesak Day in Indonesia.
Depending on the country, there are a number of different traditions for Vesak.
In Thailand and Indonesia, special lanterns are made from paper and wood. Then they’re hung from houses and trees.
In China, there is a tradition of creating large, colourful dragons. They are carried through the streets in a parade.
Some countries release caged birds into the air. They symbolize that all creatures should be free and happy.
What else should I know about Buddha?
Buddhist monks offer prayers during Vesak in Bangalore, India. (Manjunath Kiran/AFP via Getty Images)
Buddha was born in 563 BC and was the son of an Indian king. He was originally named Siddhartha Gautama. He lived a privileged life inside the walls of his family’s palace.
After growing up and having a family of his own, he decided to venture out beyond his palace walls. Along the way he saw people suffering from old age, sickness and death. This affected him so much that he decided to leave his life of comfort to become a holy man.
Siddhartha wandered around ancient India for six years. He spent his time meditating and trying to find true happiness. His main goal in life was to find a way to end human suffering.
One day while meditating under a fig tree, Siddhartha woke up filled with complete joy. This is when he became known as Buddha, which means Enlightened One. He began to teach about compassion and peace.
And his teachings became the foundation of Buddhism.
Buddha was born in 563 BC and was the son of an Indian king. He was originally named Siddhartha Gautama. He lived a privileged life inside the walls of his family’s palace.
After growing up and having a family of his own, he decided to venture out beyond his palace walls. Along the way he saw people suffering from old age, sickness and death. This affected him so much that he decided to leave his life of comfort to become a holy man.
Siddhartha wandered around ancient India for six years. He spent his time meditating and trying to find true happiness. His main goal in life was to find a way to end human suffering.
One day while meditating under a fig tree, Siddhartha woke up filled with complete joy. This is when he became known as Buddha, which means Enlightened One. He began to teach about compassion and peace.
And his teachings became the foundation of Buddhism.
