Dalai Lama to Build Bridge Between Western Science, Eastern Faith

The Dalai Lama, spiritual leader of the Tibetan people, is on a mission to build a bridge between western science and eastern faith. The Tibetan Buddhist leader is scheduled to spend the rest of 2013 in Mexico, the United States, Japan, and India, teaching Buddhism and speaking about compassion and happiness. Many heads of State refuse to schedule a meeting with the holy Tibetan leader, fearing that such a meeting would anger the Chinese government. China refuses to acknowledge Tibet as an independent Buddhist nation and feels that any world leader who deigns to speak with the Dalai Lama is in favor of a non-unified China.

The current Dalai Lama, who is the fourteenth Lama, was forced to secede control of his territory to China in 1950 before he went into exile. Sovereignty of the tiny mountain nation of Tibet has been a hard point of controversy since that time. Although the Dalai Lama, a leader chosen by the Tibetan Buddhists, practices no real political control in Tibet, the Chinese government believes that his existence is a threat to their sovereignty. In an effort to spread spiritual wisdom, the high-profile Buddhist has turned his attention to enlightening the rest of the world and remaining peaceful. His public appearances and speeches are always given freely, as he will not accept payment except to cover the costs of venue rental.

This week in Mexico, the Dalai Lama was welcomed by members of the Buddhist faith and he will be supported by members of the Catholic Church as well. Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto, however, did not greet the Tibetan leader upon arrival in Mexico, nor does he have any plans to meet with him. This is the first time in several Mexican administrations that a President or government representative has not come forward to greet the Dalai Lama and the snub is believed to be Peña Nieto’s way of appeasing China. Being politically ignored, however, is nothing new for the 78-year old Buddhist, who was snubbed by US President Obama and Canadian Prime Minister Harper during visits in 2009.

Since his exile in 1959, the Dalai Lama, considered by his followers to be the reincarnation of the very first Tibetan leader, has lived in India. From his headquarters in his adoptive country, the monk has petitioned heartily for the rights of his fellow Tibetans and even set up immigration avenues for his countrymen in India. During his 2013 world tour, the leader who has inspired millions of people worldwide hopes to create a stronger bridge between his own eastern philosophies and western science. Never one to shame modern science, the Dalai Lama instead follows a spiritual path that deems all pursuits of knowledge worthwhile.

His Holiness does, however, feel that to be successful, science must be guided by ethics. He says in his book The Universe in a Single Atom, “unless the direction of science is guided by a consciously ethical motivation, especially compassion, its effects may fail to bring benefit. They may indeed cause great harm.”

by Mandy Gardner on October 11, 2013
http://guardianlv.com/2013/10/dalai-lama-to-build-bridge-between-western-science-eastern-faith/

Interview with The Dalai Lama

by Edie Weinstein-Moser

The rising temperature on a mid-July early morn, couldn’t come close to matching the warmth in the hearts of those gathered in the courtyard of the Kalmyk Temple of Saint Zokava at the Kalmyk Brotherhood Society in a working class neighborhood in Philadelphia. The radiance of the sun was eclipsed by that of the sparkle in the eyes of the man for whom several hundred people waited hours to catch a glimpse. An eclectic blend of humanity ranged from infants held in laps to elders sitting in the shade, dressed in rainbow-hued Tibetan and Kalmyk attire and Western garb.

Kalmyks are ethnic Mongolians who are in alignment with Tibetan Buddhism. It was they who issued the invitation for His Holiness to come to Philadelphia for the first time in 18 or so years.

Multi-colored Tibetan prayer flags draped the back of the courtyard and a vine encrusted brick wall bore a yellow and teal colored banner that read in Tibetan "The Philadelphia Tibetan Association Welcomes His Holiness, The Dalai Lama, the Reincarnation of Avalokiteshvara ("Embodiment of Compassion" in Tibetan Buddhism) We Are Very Blessed For Your Visit." This was translated for me by a young IT consultant named Dorjee who had traveled from Texas for the occasion. Visitors arrived from all corners of the globe to celebrate the arrival of this human symbol of grace in the midst of turmoil.

The 73 year old political and spiritual leader of a government in exile, now resides in Dharamsala, India, since the 1959 takeover of his mother-land of Tibet by the Chinese government. He seems to view the world as his home.

The aroma of sweet incense wafted through the air, mirrored only by the sounds of lilting music that filled the courtyard, creating the atmosphere for what was to transpire shortly. There was a sense of respectful anticipation and when His Holiness, the 14th Dalai Lama stepped out of the limousine, a sharp intake of breath was audible and a reverent sense of welcome palpable. In a presentation before those gathered, His Holiness spoke of the Kalmyk culture needing to continue through education of the next generation, since many of their elders were moving on to their next incarnation. Listening with rapt attention, mala (prayer beads) ran through the fingers of those in the seats inside the temple as well as those still standing in the courtyard, His Holiness’ message being transmitted through speakers so all could hear. At the completion of the morning’s event, a red prayer cord and Borstk, which is a traditional Kalmyk pastry, was blessed by His Holiness and offered to the departing crowd.

Later in the day, in the elegant Verizon Hall in the Kimmel Center, a capacity crowd filled the seats as they enjoyed elaborately costumed and choreographed Kalmyk and Tibetan folk music and dances, as well as mono-tonal Tibetan chanting offered by the Drepung Gomang monks who travel the world to create exquisite sand mandalas, which when complete, are disassembled to represent the Buddhist concept of impermanence.

To the sound of thundering applause, His Holiness walked on stage, bowed three times and then prostrated himself before the image of the Buddha emblazoned on a 50 foot tall tapestry, known as a thangka. Taking off his sandals, he nestled cross legged in a radiantly orange chair to begin his teachings on "Buddhism in the 21st Century." His first words indicated that he was "Very happy to be here once more in this famous city," and then he made reference to the Liberty Bell and encouraged people to "fill up the crack with our own efforts."

The Dalai Lama indicated that Buddhism reflects three components "Science, philosophy and religion, but the top priority is unity, to minimize fear and hatred and increase love, compassion and forgiveness."

After the presentation, His Holiness was surprised by a large sheet cake in celebration of his 73rd birthday on July 6th. A delighted smile spread across his face, as he seemed not to be aware of the ritual of blowing out the candle. He then cut a large piece from the middle of the cake and ate with great enthusiasm. There was plenty left to share with his guests in the lobby as they exited the building, enjoying what seemed like manna from heaven.

Greg Schultz, of Glenside, PA who was the manager of the event at the Kimmel Center , describes himself as " a practicing Tibetan Buddhist and close friend of the Tibetan people. His Holiness’ message of peace and non-violence as being internal rather than external resonates deep within my very being. There was a moment when he greeted me with a gentle embrace with his head nestled on my shoulder and mine on his. This lasted for what seemed several minutes and left me feeling infinite joy and deep gratitude for all humanity."

For this journalist, what occurred the next day, fulfilled a twenty- year long dream, that of interviewing His Holiness. Ushered into a hotel room past a gauntlet of Philadelphia police officers and secret service agents, I found myself face to face with a man whose image had surrounded me, for the interceding years, as I had set intention for this day to occur. Immersing myself in the manifestation process, his photo is in my car, on a wall in my office and on several vision boards I had created over the years; the seed planting had blossomed into an exquisite garden. A delightful twinkle appeared in his eyes as he made contact with mine, which at that moment, were filling with tears. I approached him, katah ( a traditional white silk scarf) in hand, to complete a ritual which involved holding it in prayer pose across my hands. He bowed, took it from me, blessed it, draped it around my neck and then drew me into a hug. He then motioned for me to sit nearby to begin our conversation. Periodically, His Holiness would reach over to touch my arm, to make a point. Despite speaking fluent English, a translator was nearby to offer assistance when His Holiness searched for the occasional word. His speech is lilting and not always in keeping with grammatic flow. I have maintained the form of communication he used, for authenticity and to offer the flavor of the conversation. My intention is for readers to see the man behind the icon. He shared that he sleeps 8 or 9 hours per night, completes work at 4:30 p.m. each day, eats no dinner and then arises at 3:30 a.m. for several hours of meditation. Much of his work now is teaching, less the political leader and more in the professorial and spiritual roles.

Edie: How do you, as a human being, embody the spiritual and as a spiritual being, embody the human?


Dalai Lama: I’m nothing special, just an ordinary human being. That’s why I always describe myself as a simple Buddhist monk. Different people describe me in a different ways. Some describe me as the living Buddha. Nonsense. Some describe me as ‘God-king.’ Nonsense. Some consider me as a demon or a wolf in Buddhist robes. That also, I think nonsense. I am simply just one monk. That’s all. Then here, the certain temple rule, this seems to me to have a certain responsibility to look after the well-being of society and look after Buddhism and culture. I consider these part of the practice of spirituality. There is no competition between spiritual practice and party politics. That is outdated. We already, since 2001, have elected political position. My position is semi-retired. I am looking forward to complete retirement.


Edie: What would complete retirement look like for you?


Dalai Lama: More time to meditate and preparation for next life. I have three commitments. Number one commitment is promotion of human value. Number two commitment is promotion of race harmony. Number three commitment is about Tibet. My retirement is the third commitment. The previous two commitments, to my death, I have committed.


Edie: What brings you joy?


Dalai Lama: Joy, I think, talking with people and my own motivation is sincere. I consider others as just brothers and sisters. Nothing barrier. I think you notice, like yesterday, when I talk to a few thousand people, I just feel I am talking to an old friend. Like that. I never felt some kind of distance, so therefore, I feel one source of happiness. In that kind of atmosphere, my experience seems some benefit to some people. I feel like my life is something purposeful. Many people have told me that after they listen to my talk, some point which I made, they got certain ideas and their whole life is changed. They are happier. One scientist had discussions about love and compassion. Usually, he felt irritation. After our meeting, for some months, anger never come.


Edie: You speak a great deal about compassion. It seems easy to have compassion for those we feel are like ourselves. When faced with those whose values feel different or even threatening, how can we allow for that same type of understanding?


Dalai Lama: Basically, there are not much differences. They also want happy life. Their method is different. On secondary level, always differences. Faith differences, culture differences, racial differences. Even within one person, yesterday and today, there are differences. We must look at a deeper level. I feel many problems that we are facing, are man-made problems, we have too much emphasis on this secondary thing, forgetting our foundation. At foundation, we are the same human being and we are sharing the same planet. Six billion human beings’ future is my future and my future is never separate from the future of six billion human beings. Those people, whose early life, due to lack of affection, always have suspicion and distrust and always remain distant. They never open their heart to other people. I met an American lady many years ago, much distant. Then I told her about my own difficult experiences and I showed some genuine concern. She responded, "Why are you so concerned about me?" We need more patience. At a fundamental level, we are the same human brothers and sisters. Then forget it. The human mind is very strange. Like that.


Edie: How can we communicate that affection to those who cross our paths and so create a more peaceful planet?


Dalai Lama: Real affection comes from the face. Those political leaders, when they meet, they are always hugging, but not very genuine. Deep, sincerity comes from face and eye. When you entered, you showed that face. I thought, "This is sincere. Not political hugging."


Edie: No, definitely not political hugging. As you recently celebrated your 73rd birthday, I wonder what legacy you want to leave.


Dalai Lama: No, no, no. Many years ago, a New York Times journalist asked me that question. I told her, as a Buddhist practitioner, not allowed. If I take serious my legacy, that means self centered. So, I answer that and then again that lady asked a second time and I answered same way and then a third time and then I lost my temper. If you ask, I may lose my temper. ( Laughter followed.) Your motivation should be sincere and your life should be of benefit to some people. That is the main thing. Don’t care after my death.


Edie: The question wasn’t referring to you as an important figure, but about making a difference in people’s lives every day, that one among six billion. I won’t ask you again. We’re friends, I don’t want to spoil that.


Although the photographers’ camera shutters were clicking away throughout the entire interview, a memorable moment came near the end, when, seemingly posing playfully for the camera, His Holiness leaned back in his chair and with arms behind his head, allowed a last peal of joyous laughter to echo forth, with such gusto that the ripples could reach the homeland that he envisions awaiting his peoples’ return.


To learn more, visit www.dalailama.com


Edie Weinstein-Moser is a journalist, speaker, interfaith minister, therapist and firm believer in dreams come true. Her website is www.liveinjoy.org

Flags Fly in French Market to Welcome Dalai Lama

By Kari Dequine Harden

NEW ORLEANS — Squares of blue, white, red, green and yellow cloth danced in the breezy sunshine along the awnings of French Market on Saturday morning.

Across the city, business owners and residents hung the brightly colored Tibetan Buddhist prayer flags over doors and on balconies as a welcoming gesture to His Holiness the Dalai Lama and to celebrate his first visit to New Orleans May 16 to May 18.

According to Tibetan Buddhist tradition, the flags send prayers of love, compassion and happiness to all beings in the world through the wind.

Each colored flag has a different prayer, and each is connected to an element of the Earth. “May all beings be free of suffering and free of the causes of suffering — that’s the core of all the prayers,” Neil Guidry, Tulane University professor of Tibetan Studies in the School of Social Work, said of the symbols and mantras printed on the flags.

The nature of resilience is a focal point of the events surrounding the visit, and the Dalai Lama’s message, said Ronald Marks, dean of Tulane’s School of Social Work.

“Resilience speaks to these qualities that enable us to recover, even thrive, in the face of adversity,” Marks said at a Prayer Flag Day news conference on Saturday. “The people of New Orleans understand this well, and this week, the people of Boston understand this well.”

Marks said the Dalai Lama accepted the invitation to visit New Orleans to pay tribute to the resilience of the community and its residents over the past seven years.

It was Marks who issued the invitation to the Dalai Lama in India in September 2011, and it was Marks who in March 2012 opened the official letter of acceptance. For the past 12 years, Marks has taken a group of graduate students to Dharamsala, India, the home of the Dalai Lama and his government in exile.

The Tulane program grew out of a connection Marks made with Guidry, who in 1997 started the Louisiana Himalaya Association, an organization created to “form a cultural and social service bridge between the Tibetan Refugees in Northern India and the people elsewhere that have so much to learn from their wisdom,” according to its website.

Prayer flags were handed out to a host of city, community and religious leaders at Saturday’s news conference, including New Orleans Archbishop Gregory Aymond. The Dalai Lama’s message of peace, reconciliation and conciliation is important not just for the world but “for us as a city,” Aymond said, specifically in the “battle against murder, violence and racism.”

Marks described over 60 events happening throughout the community in connection with the Dalai Lama’s historic visit. While the public talks are sold out, they will be livestreamed, and numerous other events are free and open to the public.

Robert Turner, owner of Silk Road Collection on Magazine Street, hung prayer flags in front of his Asian antique store Saturday. He said he plans to livestream the Dalai Lama’s public talks on a large screen in his store on May 17 and May 18.

“I’ve been a fan of the Dalai Lama forever,” Turner said. “He’s a great individual. I’m not particularly Buddhist per se, but he’s a great spiritual leader. He’s compassionate, loving, fun and funny.”

Not to be disrespectful, Turner said, but “He seems like someone who it would be a lot of fun to sit down and have a beer with.”

The message of peace, compassion and acceptance of everyone is “something the world could use more of,” Turner said.

There also is an extensive community outreach component, aimed at bringing the message of the Dalai Lama to those who might not otherwise have access to it.

“Whatever city you come from, whatever religion you believe in, love, compassion and understanding are the foundation of our lives,” said the Venerable Tich Thien Ngo. of Phuoc Nguyen Temple.

One of the events will feature a Tibetan Bazaar and the five-day-long creation of a sand mandala in the Ernest J. Morial Convention Center from May 14 to May 17.

The sand mandala is part of the “mystic art” of Tibet, Marks described, during which monks will create an elaborate painting using colored sand before whisking it away and carrying in a procession to the Mississippi River, allowing the river, the Gulf of Mexico, and the ocean to “further spread the message of peace and compassion.”

For more information about the events and where to purchase prayer flags, visit http://dalailamanola.com
original post link: http://theadvocate.com/news/5763477-123/flags-fly-in-french-market