Comments on: A few words—from the Dalai Lama—for Lent’s last lap

By: Ashwin Verghese

Ashwin Verghese — Wed, 08 Apr 2020 21:34:09 +0000

I just want to share how much this piece touched me. I have the great blessing now of working for the International Campaign for Tibet, and I consider myself a follower of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. However, I grew up as a Christian and still feel connected to that faith. Having one foot in both religions, I think your analysis of how they can complement each other is spot on.

I was especially moved by this passage: “Many sincere Christians have foundered on the rocky shores of unproductive guilt over their own private demons. The Dalai Lama keeps repeating that unhealthy attention to our weaknesses will not enhance our inner values, nor will it make us better people.”

That reminds me so much of my own experience and how the teachings of His Holiness helped reorient my mind away from pessimistic self-criticism toward grateful compassion.

I’m glad His Holiness’ teachings seem to have had a similar effect on you, and I wish you nothing but success as you continue “developing strong inner values while becoming less self-centered.”

I hope to join you in that place of wisdom someday. Thank you for sharing your story with us.

By: Wayne Holst

Wayne Holst — Sun, 05 Apr 2020 16:47:49 +0000

Thanks, Bill:. It is marvelous how our global travel can inform and enrich our lives back home,

Wayne

By: Bill Way

Bill Way — Sat, 04 Apr 2020 19:18:20 +0000

Thank you Wayne!
I keep returning to the Book of Joy as a human response to suffering and dis-ease. I think it is time that we refer to ourselves as Joyful People, not merely Optimists.

As Heather and I learned from people in Cuba, they make the distinction that “We are struggling, but we are not suffering.” Joy lets us experience all kinds of compassion, and the full gamut of emotions without thinking that things will just get better somehow.

Let’s practice Joy.