"The essence of all religions is love, compassion, and tolerance. Kindness is my true religion. The clear proof of a person’s love of God is if that person genuinely shows love to fellow human beings." ~ Dalai Lama
Believed to be a reincarnation of Buddha, Tenzin Gyatso (1935-), the Dalai Lama (Mongolian for "Ocean of Wisdom"), is the spiritual and political leader of Tibet's six million Lamaistic Buddhists. About 1/4 of all Tibetan men are Buddhist monks and the country has over 2,500 monasteries.
In 1950, the Chinese invasion of independent Tibet forced the Dalai Lama into permanent exile. "Suffering is the first step to liberation," he wrote about his exodus. This holy man continues to teach compassion, love, and kindness.
"When we face problems with compassion, sincerity, and good motivation, our solutions may take longer, but ultimately they are better."
In recognition of his commitment to the nonviolent liberation of his homeland, he received the 1989 Nobel Peace Prize. With concern for the sacredness of life, Tenzin Gyatso holds fast to the belief that one day the Tibetan people will recover their country.
More DALAI Lama Quotations
The best solutions are found with compassion.