The Mission of the Dalai Lama

The Dalai Lama's lecture on the quest for happiness in challenging times was both informative and insightful. His Holiness touched on a variety of things, including the county and individual, affection and compassion, and religion. All of these aspects of life were effectively tied together to demonstrate that happiness can be achieved no matter what the circumstances may be.

One of the primary things I learned, which the Dalai Lama continually stressed, was the idea that no country or individual can stand alone and be independent from others. A country as large and as powerful as the United States, for example, still requires the help of others to sustain its success. The idea that all people are interdependent leads the way for the notion that since all people depend on one another, we must treat each other with respect and compassion. The Dalai Lama stated that there was no need for fighting or for war, especially after how much had been seen in the 20^th century which he grew up in. This argument was strengthened when the Dalai Lama talked about over 200 million people being killed in the 20^th century, primarily from conflicts such as World War I and II. He scoffed at the fact that this was also the introduction of nuclear weapons onto the battlefield. Talking things out, he explained, was a much better method of solving conflict. To stress this point, His Holiness declared that, despite his title and prestige across the world, he is equal to each and every one of the people he speaks to. Humans are equal biologically, physically, emotionally, and spiritually, he said. There is no need for such harsh treatment of people who are just like you.

Treating people with love and affection and as an equal rather than an inferior is a major step in the path to happiness. However, they may sometimes be obstacles that interfere with happiness and cloud our judgment. For this as well, the Dalai Lama had a solution. He said that religion was the way through such tough times. Religion is the belief in a God or gods. This implies faith, which allows for hope according to the Dalai Lama. Hope is the source of light that enables us to get through the dark areas in life. Building off of this, the Dalai Lama was asked how he can stay so positive and keep a smile on his face in such tough times. He explained that if there is a solution to a problem, no matter how big or small, hope is not needed because the problem can be solved. Conversely, if there is no solution to a problem, then one need not waste hope on trying to solve it. This provided both a shrewd and well-humored ideology. Overall, the Dalai Lama shed a great deal of light on the steps that need to be taken to achieve bliss, no matter the circumstances.