His Holiness the Dalai Lama turns 79 today July 6, 2014. He was born to a farming family in northeastern Tibet as Lhamo Dhondup on July 6, 1935. At the age of two, he was deemed the reincarnation of the 13th Dalai Lama by Buddhist. At age of fifteen, following China’s invasion, he assumed political power in Tibet. Since 1959, he has lived in exile from Tibet and uses his platform to promote world peace.
His life has enriched every religion and every people. As we celebrate his life, here are some of his most beloved teachings:
“Happiness is not something ready-made. It comes from your own actions.”
“Love is the absence of judgment.”
“If you think you are too small to make a difference, try sleeping with a mosquito.”
“There is a saying in Tibetan, 'Tragedy should be utilized as a source of strength.' No matter what sort of difficulties, how painful experience is, if we lose our hope, that's our real disaster.”
“This is my simple religion. No need for temples. No need for complicated philosophy. Your own mind, your own heart is the temple. Your philosophy is simple kindness.”
“Remember that the best relationship is one in which your love for each other exceeds your need for each other.”
“Silence is sometimes the best answer.”
“Know the rules well, so you can break them effectively.”
“Choose to be optimistic, it feels better.”
“Judge your success by what you had to give up in order to get it.”
“Remember that sometimes not getting what you want is a wonderful stroke of luck.”
“People take different roads seeking fulfillment and happiness. Just because they’re not on your road doesn’t mean they’ve gotten lost.”
“Take into account that great love and great achievements involve great risk.”
