Interview The Dalai Lama

The Dalai Lama
Dalai Lama

Autobiography of The Dalai Lama

Hello, dear reader, I am Tenzin Gyatso, better known as the 14th Dalai Lama. I was born on July 6, 1935, in a small hamlet of Taktser, Amdo, Tibet. Today, I want to share my life story with you.

Early Life: Discovering a Reincarnation

I was born as Lhamo Thondup to a family of farmers. In 1937, when I was barely two years old, monks from the Search Party arrived at our home, convinced they had found the reincarnation of the 13th Dalai Lama. I passed their tests, including recognizing objects that belonged to my predecessor. Shortly after, I was renamed Tenzin Gyatso, and my training in Buddhist philosophies and leadership began.

Journey to Lhasa: Becoming the Dalai Lama

In 1940, I was formally recognized as the Dalai Lama and commenced my new life at the Potala Palace in Lhasa. Those were days of intense learning – scriptures, meditations, rituals, and statecraft – forming the bedrock of my understanding and practice of compassion and non-violence.

Facing Turmoil: The Chinese Invasion

Unfortunately, my quiet scholarly life was upended in 1950 when the People’s Liberation Army of China invaded Tibet. As a teenager, I was thrust into the role of a political leader. I tried to negotiate peace, maintaining a peaceful stance even in the face of aggression. However, my efforts could not prevent the loss of Tibetan autonomy.

Exile to India: A New Beginning

In 1959, fearing for my life, I was forced to escape Tibet and seek political asylum in India, a moment that shaped the rest of my life. I set up the Tibetan government-in-exile in Dharamshala, which remains the center of the Tibetan Diaspora.

Sharing Tibetan Buddhism and Compassion Worldwide

From Dharamshala, I have traveled the world, meeting leaders, academics, and individuals, spreading the teachings of Tibetan Buddhism and advocating for the Tibetan people. I have always emphasized compassion, peace, and inter-religious harmony.

My work was recognized in 1989 when I received the Nobel Peace Prize. This honor belongs not only to me but to all Tibetans and those who believe in peace and compassion.

Continuing My Journey

I continue my journey of spiritual leadership, teaching, and advocating for peace. Though I officially retired from the political duties in 2011, I still remain the spiritual leader of Tibetans and the symbol of their struggle. I strive to build bridges of understanding and harmony between different cultures and religions.

My life, though marked by many difficulties and trials, has been an extraordinary journey of learning and growing. I have witnessed a tumultuous period in history, weathering storms of change and emerging with an unbroken spirit of peace and compassion. This is the essence of my existence – to promote human values, religious harmony, and the concept of universal responsibility.

Reflections: The Future of the Dalai Lama

Looking forward, the future of the Dalai Lama remains uncertain. However, I trust the Tibetan people will decide the best path forward. My hope is that, regardless of what happens, my message of compassion and peace continues to resonate and inspire. For in the end, I am but a simple Buddhist monk.

Conclusion: A Simple Buddhist Monk

Despite the titles and honors, I consider myself a simple Buddhist monk. Whether I am conversing with a fellow monk or a world leader, I aim to treat everyone as a fellow human being. Compassion, peace, non-violence, and inter-religious understanding – these are the principles that guide my life, and it is my humble hope that they may serve to guide others.

I hope that by sharing my journey, I can inspire you to embrace compassion and understanding in your life. The world needs more of it. As a human family, we have the power to create a more peaceful world, and it begins with each one of us. So, as I often say, “Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible.”

Thank you for joining me on this journey through my life. May peace be with you.

The Dalai Lama Books and Audio Books on Amazon.

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