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Tibetans have turned exile into opportunity and adversity into blessing: His Holiness the Dalai Lama

Members of Tibetan Women’s Association greeting His Holiness the Dalai Lama as he arrives at the audience hall. Photo/OHHDL

DHARAMSHALA: “We have lived nearly 60 years in exile but on the other hand, we have been able to take this adversity in stride and use it as an opportunity to re-establish our identity as a people of unique culture, heritage and religious tradition,” Tibetan spiritual leader, His Holiness the Dalai Lama said on Monday.

“In these 60 years in exile, we have achieved a recognition for Tibetan people’s unique spirit, culture and its Buddhist tradition. Tibet, a country that was unknown and far-flung from the world, is today recognised worldwide for its rich cultural heritage and its contribution to modern science”. His Holiness was addressing over 190 participant-delegation of the Tibetan Women’s Association General Meeting.

The scientific community recognises Tibetan Buddhism as a unique tradition that can engage with science and meet scientific needs, he said, adding that thousands-year-old Tibetan Buddhist tradition, preserved by the Tibetan people, holds the key to achieving world peace.

“Therefore through harnessing the potential teachings of our culture and religion, we have the potential to contribute to the greater good of humanity, and therefore in a unique position to serve the 7-billion human beings,” he said.

His Holiness also expressed his conviction in the possibility of a peaceful world with women holding the mantle of love and compassion. “It is scientifically proven that women are innately more sensitive, emotionally resilient, compassionate and altruistic”.

He hoped that Tibetan women, especially mothers will be inspired to contribute in important ways to Tibetan community by advocating the practice of love and compassion. “As mothers, you have a special responsibility to instill the sense of compassion and love in your children. I loved my mother very much because she was a very compassionate woman. Not one day had I ever seen my mother with an angry face. But my father was not as compassionate,” he said.

His Holiness further commented that compassion must be taught as part of education without religious bearings.

In the hour-long audience, His Holiness lauded the works of Tibetan Women Association in the community and encouraged them to continue the good work.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama addressing the participants of the General Meeting of Tibetan Women’s Association. Photo/OHHDL