新世紀の非暴力進むべき道 (Nonviolence in the New Century: The Way Forward)

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>> Please welcome Dr. Sidney Burris to the stage.
[ Applause ]
>> Dr. Burris: Good afternoon. Thank you all for coming. Today's lecture by his holiness
the 14th Dalai Lama is a dream years in the making. And for some of us it's the dream
of the lifetime. I would like to thank the members of the distinguished lectures committee
for sponsoring this event. We are deeply grateful for your support. Upon receiving the news
that the Dalai Lama would be able to visit us ,we formed a steering committee last fall,
to begin making preparations. We hope to give everyone the chance to learn more about the
events and the issues related to Tibet and the Dalai Lama. These preparations included
a film and a book series as well as the events of Tibet week which, began last Wednesday.
One project we are highlighting is the "Tutors for Tibetans" program-A project that provides
after school tutors for exiled Tibetan children who live in refugee camps in South India.
Since the 1960's, the Tibetan community has struggled to provide their children the traditional
education they need to understand their distinguished heritage while, preparing them to enter the
modern world where they will ultimately make their way. Tibetan teachers in the south of
India are around the draping monasteries currently working at full capacity in multi age classrooms
with only the most basic supplies. Tutors who work with the children, both during and
after the school, help reinforce the material covered in class, while providing individual
attention to the children who need it. Early reports indicate that our initial efforts
have greatly improved the quality of education that the children are receiving and the teachers
tell us that they are deeply grateful for our help. Funding for more tutors and more
supplies is desperately needed. If you are interested in assisting this program, please
refer, to the university's Dalai Lama website. My thanks to everyone who made these events
possible this afternoon including my Co-Chair of the steering committee, Melissa Banks,
and all the other members on the committee, for their hard work. It's been a tremendous
year leading up to today's lecture from the 14th Dalai Lama. I would like to now invite
the Chancellor of the University of Arkansas, G. David Gearhart, to begin the conferring
of the honorary degree. Chancellor...
[ Applause ]
>> David Gearhart: Thank You Dr. Burris. This is indeed an historic event. We are extremely
honored by the Dalai Lama's visit to the University of Arkansas. It is a once in a lifetime opportunity
for our campus. Every Year, his holiness, the Dalai Lama, receives thousands of invitations
to speak from all over the world. He can only satisfy a small number of those requests.
We are most fortunate to be among those privileged few. The University of Arkansas strives to
be a force of change, regionally, nationally, and globally. We believe we have the power
to improve people's lives and the obligation, to do so. We promote the values of diversity,
tolerance, understanding and cooperation, and we actively forge international partnership
that reinforce and affirm those relationship. We are humbled by the opportunity to partner
with the Dalai Lama in spreading his message of non violence. We had a marvelous conversation
this morning, with Vincent Harding and Sister Helen Prejean, about non violence, and I am
looking forward to as I know you are, to his holiness expand to further on his ideas. Before
we do, a few thanks are in order. First, I would also like to thank the distinguished
Lecture Committee for making this event possible. We also owe a huge debt of thanks to two Faculty
members. The first we just heard from Dr. Sidney Burris, Director of the Honors Program
in the J. William Fulbright School of Arts and Sciences. Dr Burris has been responsible
for heading the committee that planned the year long series of events for seeding this
visit. He has done a spectacular job.
[ Applause ]
>> David Gearhart: The Second Faculty member is Geshe Dorjee, a Tibetan Monk and Instructor
in Fulbright College. Geshe is, in fact, a title designating a Tibetan Buddhist academic
degree, meaning spiritual guide. Since it can take anywhere from 12 to 20 years to complete
the rigorous curriculum needed to attain this title, there are necessarily very few Geshes
in the world. We are, in fact, quite privileged to have one teaching in Fulbright College.
We may, in fact, be the only university in the nation with a fulltime instructor who
is a "Geshe". Geshe Dorjee and Dr. Burris.
[ Applause ]
>> David Gearhart: Geshe Dorjee and Dr. Burris met with the Dalai Lama during their most
recent trip to India in summer 2009. They were visiting the Dalai Lama's compound with
15 students from the University of Arkansas as part of the TEXT project. This stands for
Tibetans in exile today. And it is an oral history program designed to record the stories
of Tibet currently living in refugee settlements in India. The project focuses on the Tibetan
left their country in 1959, but still have vivid memories of traditional Tibetan culture.
The Dalai Lama wanted to meet the faculty and the students who were working to preserve
the history and the life story of these people. This was not the first time that they had
asked the Dalai Lama to come to the University of Arkansas. As early as 2007, they had put
in a request and then again, in 2008 they asked again at their meeting in 2009. Finally,
they received an email in March 2010 that began, and I quote -"Responding to your email
of 2007." They never forgot us. Needless to say, we were all elated. I cannot thank Dr.
Burris and Geshe Dorjee enough for their dedication to the Tibetan cause, and their persistence
in inviting The Holiness the Dalai Lama to visit our University. In August, while working
in conjunction with the Tibet Fund, the University of Arkansas, will welcome its first Tibetan
student Geshe Sada to do graduate work in Public Administration. We hope this will begin
a lasting relationship with the Tibet Fund and Tibetan students who seek an education
here in the west and at our great university. The University of Arkansas is very fortunate
to have been selected by the Tibet Fund to host such a student. I have no doubt that
the involvement of Professor Burris and Geshe Dorjee in the TEXT Project, and tutors for
Tibet played a part in bringing University of Arkansas to the Tibet Fund's attention.
Thank you again gentleman.
[ Applause ]
>> David Gearhart: Now let me say a few introductory words about todays honored guest. The Dalai
Lama is the spiritual Leader of Tibetan Buddhist, and from the age of 15 he also served as a
political leader -- a position he recently relinquished. He was forced to flee into exile
after the suppression of a Tibetan uprising in 1959. He and his fellow exiles established
the Tibetan Administration in exile in India. The Dalai Lama was awarded the Noble Peace
Prize in 1989 for his non violent struggle for the people of Tibet. He became the first
Nobel Laureate to be formally recognized for his concern environmental issues, throughout
the world. In addition to this role as spiritual and the political leader of the Tibetans,
The Dalai Lama, is an international spokesperson for human rights and non violence, and is
among the most respected leaders in the world. In 2007, the Dalai Lama was awarded the congressional
gold medal by the President of the United States. Since 1959, he has received more than
84 awards, medals, and honorary doctorates in recognition of his message of compassion,
peace, non violence, interfaith understanding and universal responsibility. He has also
authored more than 70 books which include, "An Open Heart", "Ethics for the New Millennium"
and the "The Universe in a Single Atom". The President of the University of Arkansas System
Dr. B. Alan Sugg, The Chairman of the University Of Arkansas Board Of Trustees Dr. Carl Johnson,
and the Provost of the University of Arkansas Dr. Sharon Gaber will assist me in conferring
the Honorary Degree. Ladies and gentleman please join me in welcoming His Holiness the
14th Dalai Lama.
[ Applause and Cheers ]
>> David Gearhart: [Chuckle] The University of Arkansas now has the great privilege of
conferring an Honorary Degree to Tenzin Gyatso, His Holiness 14th the Dalai Lama. Honorary
Degrees are conferred upon individuals who have achieved extraordinary distinction in
the sciences, law, the arts, a chosen profession or public affairs. Recipients of the degrees
are exceptional individuals who have demonstrated an appreciation of, and dedication to the
ideals and the purposes of a University. It is my succinct pleasure and great honor to
present His Holiness the Dalai Lama, for his promotion of basic human values and secular
ethics in the interest of human haplessness , the fostering of interreligious harmony
and the welfare of the Tibetan people . It is a privilege for University of Arkansas
to bestow the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Humane Letters to His Holiness.
[ Applause ]
>> David Gearhart: Dr. Johnson the chairman of our board, it is my privilege to present
to you His Holiness the Dalai Lama. His Holiness has been recommended and approved by the faculty
of the University, and by the Board of Trustees of our institution, as a recipient of the
Degree of Doctor of Humane Letters. Dr Johnson...
>> Dr. Johnson: Tenzin Gyatso, His Holiness the 14th the Dalai Lama for your distinction
and exceptional accomplishment as a friend to all Arkansans. By the authority vested
in me as the Chair of the Board of Trustees of the University of Arkansas, I confer upon
you the Degree of Doctor of Humane Letters, Honorius Cauca, and admit you to all rights
and privileges pertaining thereto.
[ Applause and Cheers ]
>> Dalai Lama: Thank You, thank you.
>> Congratulations
>> Dalai Lama: Thank you, thank you, thank you.
>> Dr. Johnson: And now Ladies and Gentleman, I ask that Your Holiness address our audience.
>>Dalai Lama: Thank you.
[ Applause ] Dalai Lama: [Inaudible] [HC1]Sometimes you just go like that, and then sometimes
it is difficult [laughter]. [Background conversation] Respected Chancellor and President and other
faculty, professors and the teachers and perhaps students and then also some guests, basically
you all same human being, So I usually prefer to use human -- "Dear Brothers and Sisters".
[ Applause ]
>> Dalai Lama: Firstly, this is my first time I came here, and I got the honorary degree
from the University. I cannot pronounce properly the name -- doesn't matter. [Laughter]
>> Arkansas.
>> Dalai Lama: Arkansas, I don't know.
[ Applause and Cheers ]
>> Dalai Lama: So really great honor. Thank you very much. Thank you. [Audience laughter]
Whenever people like you give me this kind of Honorary Degree, that gives me some kind
of inspiration. A person now 76 years old, I dedicate in the well being of other in different
field. So this ought some kind of acknowledgement, so I appreciate. Thank you very much. Rest
of my life I continuously dedicated. So I hope your award will not waste [laughter].
>> Won't be wasted.
>> Dalai Lama: [Laughter] So then, I come from -- I come from usually people call "Roof
of the World", "Land of Snow", then some people say "oh that land, that country" rather for
the "mysterious land" and even some book about Tibet they call "Third Eye". [Laughs] So,
Tibetan people have some kind of magical power like that. These are nonsense and then me
personally some people call me "God King", "Living Buddha". That is also nonsense. [Laughter]
And then some people call me "Demon". That is also nonsense.
[ Laughter ]
>> Dalai Lama: What is real Person? I usually just call myself as a simple "Buddhist monk".
That's true. In my dream, I often remember I am Buddhist Monk, that's dearest in my heart.
So then, I receive this kind of Degree -- Honorary Degree and also talk with public, even I am
not thinking as a Buddhist Monk -- I'm simply a human being. On that fundamental human level
we are same, mentally, emotionally, physically we are same. Then important I want happy life,
you also want happy life. Differences of family background, differences of level education,
wealth, rank or different faith, different color, it is all secondary. What is important
we are human being. Everyone wants happy life that is from birth we have the right to achieve
happy life. So now question, "What is happiness? What is the meaning of happiness?" I usually...
of course my own [inaudible] understanding about the different English word, I myself
not very clear, but rational understanding, So, I usually feel happiness means here means
deep satisfaction. So that means pains and sufferings sometimes bring deep satisfaction.
So here main meaning, I feel, satisfaction. So, then what is way to gain deeper satisfaction?
Usually the materialistic world, I think you consider some kind of satisfaction, mental
level satisfaction through sensorial experience. Looking some beautiful thing, including sports,
you get some satisfaction. And music hearing gives some satisfaction. And taste, smell,
touch through these way we get some satisfaction. So these kind of satisfaction much depend
on external factors. When these external factors are absent, you feel void. Other hand, like
those I think serious practitioner spend hundreds life solitude but, with deep satisfaction,
no need music no need scenery. Simply think of satisfaction from that level, mental level
itself, and not relying on sensory level. That is really deeper level of satisfaction.
So I always telling, sharing with people in order to be happy life, we should pay more
attention about our inner value. Try to stick happy life from external life, from money,
from power, it's a mistake. Yes money important or this -- no doubt very important but, our
source of happiness is within ourselves. There are many differences, whether educated or
uneducated, rich or poor, or high status or low status or different color. Or even believer
or non believer no differences. That is to believe in faith tremendously to God, that
is satisfaction that also immense source of inner peace and inner strength. Just this
morning, we witness to Christian practitioner. According to their experience, they made very
clear, how much strength comes from their faith. For a non-believer, I guess not faith
not relevant. And what else I feel of course, Buddhist and the follower of Genesis and some
other ancient Indian tradition, branch non characteristics of religions however, in each
sort of tradition; the faith also takes important role. But then non-believer, I feel and also
according to ancient Indian Tradition, the real source of satisfaction or inner strength
is I believe human warm heartedness. Of course all religion statement that but, itself mainly
from biological factor. When you are born the way we grown up, firstly, we born from
our mother. Even if the child is still in the mother's womb, the mother's mental state
more calm, more happier state of mind has very positive impact, on the unborn child.
Mother's mental state at that time, too much worry too much anxiety, anger very bad effect
for the unborn child. And after birth, according to medical scientists, they say after birth
for next few weeks, simply mother's physical touch is the crucial factor to properly develop
their brain -- enlargement -- enlarging their brain size -- size of the brain. Then obliviously
those children who received maximum affection at the young age, in deep inside, they are
more calm, more inner strength less fear. I think here, outwardly we all [inaudible]
but deep inside, those individual who received maximum affection, maximum care at a young
age, I think these people at deep inside much more calm, less sense of insecurity. Then
those children -- then, those people, who at that age lacking affection from their mother,
or worst cases abused. Then that leaves a scar remain several decades, or generally
I think of that whole life. So such people in deep inside sense of insecurity that automatically brings suspicion, that
bring sort of situation you remain distants from other. As a result a unsafe feeling and
loneliness. Actually, such things are against basic human nature[HC2] -- human nature -- like
this morning I also mentioned social element. [Inaudible] any social element, there must
be some emotion, which bind them together. That's a human affection. Not just a [inaudible]
but by nature voluntarily -- "Oh, they are human being." Our brothers, our sisters and
sense of concern, of morality. So that's not come to education, but by biological factor.
So on that basis, using reasons, using our interests and further standing, that is of
sense of affection. Simple concern of other human being. [Inaudible] this morning I mentioned,
biological [inaudible] of affection, it is bias limited. Very much mixed with attachment.
The other one, with that they as it seek, the two reasoning [inaudible] then you get
conviction -- [inaudible] attitude, compassion, loving guidance immenseful benefit, not only
other, but for yourself. These convictions, then you can extend, or promote further [inaudible]
that is unbiased compassion. That is genuine [inaudible]. That enthusiasm can extent towards
as your enemy. Once you double up general sense of concern or efficient towards your
enemy, similar [inaudible] your friend and in some cases, even stronger, because there
is reason. People who lies to you, their doing some good things, so their consequences will
be positive. Perpetrator -- enemy they drink, they carry some work [inaudible] so ultimately
[inaudible] they will face the consequences. There more reason to feel more concern about
this wrong [inaudible] people. Victim say it -- already is this something now already
happen. From this viewpoint [inaudible] they say, "One law [inaudible] chapter closed."
But the perpetrator [inaudible] just to start one new -- new chapter. So they have to face
negative consequences and long future. So there is a reason feel concern about that.
So anyway, that is years of unbiased compassion. These people also, [inaudible] he told me,
"True is [inaudible] should extent love compassion towards in to our last creation. Wonderful.
Then my Jewish little friend. One time he mentioned he advise from a [inaudible] he
advise some of his student -- in the class he mentioned, "When you ever face some people,
who usually you get irritation, then think that moment that person -- image of God. So
later the student reported him, "After we listen yours of advise that's in Jerusalem."
Some [inaudible] student in his class -- later as told to him, "After we learned as your
advice. When we face some sort of check post, usually they get some irritation, some anger."
So after that sort of notes -- than think that person also, image of God. So that much
of use -- he needs help to reduce fear or irritation. So all reasons of traditions [inaudible]
technique there. So anyway to [inaudible] they -- firstly our calm experience, that
means we all come from our mother. Sometimes I jokingly telling or sharing with audience
-- my mother illiterate, uneducated, just a farmer, but very, very kind. So she -- of
course, to all her children very, very kind especially when I was there -- I'm the youngest,
so she's really showing me -- tremendous of a kindness [inaudible]. So there I did bit
of showing bossy -- attitude was my mother [laughter] I see her kindness there spoil
me. [Laughter] So as of [inaudible] the child usually carry by mother and -- on shoulder
-- so I carry it by my mother, then I hold my mother's two ear [laugh] when I want to
go this side. [Laughter] If mother -- mother listened not for [inaudible] instruction,
then I shout. [Laughter] So that the indication I think my mother so dear to me, very, very
kind so therefore, I always telling people, "I have certainly amount of compassion", of
course later, Buddish training also in itself, but we don't always see it, come from in that,
so that is we all have the same experience, same potential. When we are young as soon
as we born, we receive immersive affection from our mother. Perhaps, experience reached
from the body -- every particle of our blood. So they call them scientists. People who surrounded
by affectionate people much happier. Even hospital much happier -- [inaudible] much
quick. And also the scientists say constant fear, anger, hatred, actually eating our inner
system. [Inaudible] stand, so there for this body -- particle of this body go very well
with affection -- with compassion, not go well with fear, anxiety, and anger. So therefore,
as I mentioned this morning, I consider human being basically more gentle nature. So now
the topic, nonviolence in new century [laughter]. So, as I mentioned this morning, turn of century.
I think the most sort of extraordinary century of human history, came that century -- lot
of innovations, and [inaudible] signs of [inaudible] and also different ideas and different systems.
Meantime, that century really become central [inaudible]. If this [inaudible] really solve
problem of the world and brought really peaceful happy world, then that could be some justification,
but does not. Even some sort of [inaudible] crashes or locally some sort of blood shed
-- beginning with this century. These I think -- most of these symbol something wrong in
the past -- something vigilance in the past century. So therefore, now if we use common
sense, we can direct conviction, using violence is not all [inaudible]. [Inaudible] this morning,
the ladies mentioned -- a sister had mentioned spiritual [inaudible] still we are bottled
humanity, we have to live to understand it. That person belongs to other continient, but
still -- you lead these continient -- people in these continent. So I often telling people
now today we must gather up [inaudible] victory [inaudible],neighbor so called enemy, that's
a victory of yourself. Now today, this side of your neighbor [inaudible] yourself, that's
the reality. America needs worth some extent, from where I come from [inaudible] also come
from other [inaudible]. And, also, you need market without other country. [Inaudible]
economy [inaudible] economy [inaudible] cannot take this. So it does [inaudible]. Then [inaudible]
a problem. America, most [inaudible] nation. You can't stop the [inaudible] problem unless
whole world work together making same effort, same goal, otherwise you can't solve. [Inaudible].
So, now the comparable separate [inaudible] is gone. Now we must have consider an eternal
world as a part of [inaudible]. [Inaudible] from [inaudible] viewpoint creation of God
[inaudible]. And the [inaudible] speaking, the nearly now [inaudible] human being is
a heavily interdependent [inaudible]. So the [inaudible] now with that [inaudible] understanding
[inaudible] is obligated. Now only thing is [inaudible]. Whenever we feel some problem
we have to solve that problem to dialogue. [Inaudible] and share our own problem. And
then [inaudible] the problem than how to solve jointly. That's the only way. So I usually
[inaudible] this century should be the century of dialogue. When people see sort of almost
now [inaudible] and peace, world peace, world peace, [inaudible] will not bring peace or
true prayer, also will not bring peace. At a meditation, a true meditation, bring world
peace? No. World peace, firstly, war, human action, human creation, so peace also [inaudible]
themselves must create through our action peace will come. Peace doesn't mean no longer
any sort of disagreement, no longer any problem. Problem [inaudible]. I jokingly sometimes
-- I jokingly telling people, if[HC3] we really want peaceful world, no longer any problem,
then either human species disappears or our brain change. [Laughter] So, that is not good.
Anyway, you can't do that. I think the human brain one way real problem maker, but one
way human intelligence. Because of human intelligence we only human being, only human being, can
develop infinite love, infinite altruism, not animal. Biologically, difficult, but as
a seed of compassion from biological factor, then use human intelligence. Through that
way, we can develop infinite love and compassion. So, I think inside some trouble, the world
has to survive. Therefore, the problem there we have to find effective, realistic method,
that dialogue. So, in our education system, I think more presentation about spiritual
dialogue, and also the dialogue also, is very much related with inner strength, self-confidence.
Fear and hatred keep here minimum dialogue difficult. Dialogue does not mean out of fear
out of anger, no. Dialogue means sincerity, truthful, honest, respect others' rights,
others' interests, the willing to share their problem. That is the basis of dialogue. So,
in order to carry meaningful dialogue, you need sense of brotherhood sisterhood and share
very much, involve their warm-heartedness. So, warm-heartedness, I think various education
institutions, I think should pay more attention about warm-heartedness, not those believer
very good today on teaching, increase these things. Then in general the secularism of
education system without touching religion, secularly, we can educate, we can promote
these in a way. I must make clear that when I used "secularism," it does not mean negative
attitude towards religion or disrespect towards religion, no. Secularism according to Indian
understanding, secularism is to respect all religion, no preference to this religion or
that religion, and accordingly Indians follow secularism sort of idea, even respect nonbeliever.
Thousand years -- more than 2000 years, there are certain schools of thought, which is the
nihilistic school of thought. That school of thought is criticized by rest of the traditions
but, respect people who are holding that sort of view. They refer these people also as "rishi."
Rishi means sage. So, I think, this morning, I mentioned actor/action, the view point of
the nihilist, viewpoint criticize, but a person who has that view, respect. So again make
a distinction actor and action, viewer's view, like that. So, therefore, it has to be to
bring this century more peaceful, no longer sort of mobilized murder, that's all. Different
views, different words, sometimes through war, some individuals become hero, but actually
a murderer. Killing one person is call murderer, killing thousands and thousands and 100,000
people killed, we call hero, unfair. So, we must make effort to bring genuine peaceful
world. Whenever we find some conflict, we must utilize human intelligence and human
warm-heartedness. Combine these two through dialogue, solving the problem. So that is
about my talk. Thank you. Now some questions. Okay?
[ Applause and Cheers ]
>> Dalai Lama: [Chuckle] No questions?
>> Your Holiness, these were the questions submitted through Internet, online.
>> Dalia Lama: [Inaudible]. [Laughter]
[ Applause ]
>> What do you like most about going around the world? [Tibetan translation].
>> Dalai Lama: That's a difficult question, [Tibetan language] [Tibetan translation]I
have to say. I think mostly on your question, freedom, which you enjoy, that's wonderful.
[ Applause ]
>> Dalai Lama: And also I like American style, not much formality. That I love better. [Laughter]
In some European countries, when we met and also some Japanese, whatever we ask something,
they are just nodding, what is the real answer, we don't know. [Laughter] Of course to me,
more sort of occasion meeting, if it was Japanese, usually very sort of reserved. A very close
friend of mine, so they also now, love completely informal, like that. I like informal. That
I like.
[ Applause ]
>> In what ways do our enemy become our...
>> Dalai Lama: I think little story, oh, perhaps, [laughter] I think, when I was in Tibet, I
like Life Magazine shows one picture of Queen of England. The queen is actually on a ship,
queen makes speech, very dignified lady. In the meantime, [translation] the skirt was
being blown away -- blown up by the wind and the queen is still well so, the attitude is
sort of nothing happened. If I were there, I would first [Inaudible]. [Laughter] Of course,
I have due respect or admiration for the Queen of England, a wonderful lady. [Laughter]
>> In what ways do our enemies become our most valuable teachers or contestants?
>> Dalai Lama: That right this morning I already mentioned, isn't it? [Laughter] So I think,
in a few word, we need promotion of unbiased compassion. That means genuine compassionate
attitude towards your enemy. Now, as a foundation for that practice, we need forgiveness -- tolerance.
So practice of tolerance and forgiveness, only our enemy created that opportunity or
there is one story. In Tibet, there is a walkway around the temple [translation], one person
goes there and one person already there and sit and looks meditate. Then the person who
walking asked him, "What are you doing here?" He mentioned, "I am meditating on patience
or tolerance." [Translation] Then he said to him, "in that case, go to hell." [Laughter]Then
the person who is supposed to meditate on patience immediately responds, [translation]
"You go to hell." [Laughter] When the person without disturbances seems quite successful
to meditate on patience, but real sort opportunity come [Inaudible] practice. So, therefore,
people who create the problem that's a real teacher of practice of patience. That's again
this morning I mentioned that does not mean you bow down. Again, as I mentioned this morning
and here also, make distinction, actor and action. Actor is concerned being, human being,
must respect, must show our love, but their wrong doing, their wrong action, in case,
we have to take counteraction in order to stop that. That also not out of anger, not
out of hatred, but out of essential concern of their well-being as I mentioned earlier.
Next question.
>> What do you think about the Arab spring -- the ongoing democratic movements in Arab
or the Middle East?
>> Dalai Lama: I think it is a sign of desperation of the people. I think it changed many of
them jobless or not satisfied and on top of that, lot of suppression. Or recently, after
that crisis, in India, I met one of my longtime friends, a German diplomat, who served many
years in Delhi and recently, few years he posted in Egypt. So, out of my own curiosity,
I asked him what is the situation during the old regime and he mentioned. Some people when
they express some sort of different opinion, then arrest and torture, very serious. And
I heard his [translation] explanation out of his own witness, things are really difficult.
So, this situation happened out of desperate. So, it was alright. I have always mentioning
and expressing, world belongs to humanity, not government. For example...
[ Applause ]
>> Dalai Lama: So like... Egypt belongs to Egyptian people, not few leaders, not kings,
not religious leaders, but the people. So therefore, they are governed by the people.
The best system is democratic, through election and every four years five years election.
That's the best way to govern your own country by the people, for the people, and independent
judiciary and then free press. I usually sharing with [inaudible] the media people should have
long nose like elephant nose, and then should smell in the front, front of me, front of
translator and Chancellor and you, and also very important to smell behind, what's going
on. [Laughter] So that is very important. Sometimes you see, some sort of strange people,
outwardly very nice, but behind not that much nice. [Laughter] So, people must know that.
So the media people should investigate what is going on, what's happening, whether politician,
whether businessman, whether scientist, whether educationist, [Laughter] or whether spiritual
leaders like myself. So you should investigate what the reality and then inform to public
clearly, provided it must be unbiased, truthful, honest, objectively. That is also very importantly
in order to build a healthier society in every field. I think all those wrong things must
informed public, then these individual people may think more cautiously. Otherwise like
China, in previous time, yes tight control, and also I think at that time I think every
people -- I think majority of people really full of enthusiasm, but that time gone, and
then economy realization, lot of opportunities, making money, then immense corruption. No
proper law. No free media. So, in democratic society, the media people also have very,
very important role. And then also this morning, sister mentioned that people get some kind
of fear, some sort of negative of things, that also you see media people have sort of
responsibility to inform people more balanced way, more holistically, then there is plenty
of reason to feel optimism. Now, I'm over [translation] 75 years, now nearly 76 years,
I what I learnt in my lifetime, truthful, honest transparent. Firstly, I think truthful,
honest, that is real sort of strength. Gun, force for temporary, decisive but long run
very weak. Truthful, more compassionate, truthful, honest, really this gives the strength. With
honest, truthful, you can conduct transparently, that brings trust from others. That also creates
more sort of strength. So that is me. So therefore, the media people should sort of make presentation,
the negative side, destructive side, and meantime, inform people. That is the basis of hope,
basis of optimism. So that is my small suggestion about that. Okay, now.
>> This is a personal question. Did your Holiness every learn how to drive a car? [Translation]
>> Dalai Lama: Oh, yes. [Laughter] When I was in Assam, I think my age, maybe 18, 17
-- 18, there were three old cars, which belonged to 13th Dalai Lama, then the last I think
-- at least I think two decades that is kept there, then I, how do I say, bring and also
you say driver, I call from India and then repairs of them, and then while driver not
there and then I start [laughter] and still little bit of the formality, so I cannot go
outside the yellow wall, within the yellow wall, there is not [translation] much space
but garden, so lot of trees, then I drive. [Laughter] One day... it was one occasion,
I drive and then one branch of tree, here like that, so I close my eyes. [Laughter]
So then, I much of worried, now how to tell my driver the next day. I was a little bit
nervous. Then, I thought the glass in the front of light, one glass broke. That glass
is not ordinary glass. [Translation] It was a special type of glass that has jacket lines.
Then, impossible to buy that kind of thing, of course at that time, no car in Assam market.
Then I thought, I think since my childhood, I have some kind of scientific sort of mind
where all sort of experiment. So I thought, made ordinary glass, then sugar melted and
made really thick, then one scissor, then drops -- one drops as it put on the glass,
then afterwards, it looked similar, [laughter] then other glass. So I put that quietly and
kept quiet. Whether later the driver noticed that or not, I don't know. [Laughter] So,
that is my experience like that.
>> How do you feel that your absence from Tibet has affected young Tibetans and if you
return, how do you think it would change that?
>> Dalai Lama: [Translation] There is a Tibetan expression, which says that the blessing of
a Lama is better from a distance. [Laughter] Of course, Tibetan people inside Tibet very,
very eager for my return, and they want before they die, they want see me. I receive lots
of moving message from Tibet. In the meantime, those more sort of intelligent people, they
expressed to me, they sent messages to me that it is sufficient for them if Dalai Lama
has a life freely. So, they appreciate my presence in free World. They feel then Dalai
Lama can represent of them. So far, Tibetan spirituality or Tibetan spirit, of course
Dalai Lama institution also important, but important is the spirituality or tradition
itself, now, more than 1,000 years actually, Nalanda tradition, I usually describe Tibetan
Buddhism directly comes from Nalanda Institution, I think beginning of the century and then
last I think two centuries, [translation] [inaudible] last millennium. It will remain
I think several centuries this... they saw the best of Buddhist philosophical education,
and it is almost like academics. Not only it mention how to pray, not that, just it
is explaining what is reality and true investigation. So, I found in the Nalanda tradition, the
science also there, science of matters, science of mind, both on there. Nothing to do with
religion, just describes the reality. Then on the reality, like momentary changing from
subtle level, external matters as well as internal mind, always changing, always moving.
So, that reality, the concept of impermanence developed. And also the ways of existence
are due to other factor, so, on that reality, the concept of absence of independence existence.
Now, these are Buddhist philosophy -- Buddhist concept. So this is also academic sort of
subject, not religion. Then, further part, religion, Buddhist religion, how to pray,
how to meditate and these things. So therefore, I felt the Nalanda tradition is not only just
spiritual or religious tradition, but it is truly academic tradition. So, in Tibetan tradition,
Buddhist tradition directly comes from that tradition, because the real person, the main
person who introduced Buddhism in Tibet, was one of the top masters or scholar of Nalanda
institution and also a great logician. So therefore, in our tradition, logic takes a
very important role. Other cases like Chinese Buddhist, not so much logic, what is that
[translation] not much role or like that. So therefore, Tibetan tradition, Tibetan spirit
very much related with Buddhist philosophy and is deeply rooted in Tibet, 1,000 years.
So, that is the Tibetan spirit, not relying on one person or one institution like that.
So, I have no worry. Of course, when time come, time of possibility of return come,
of course I can serve, some extent, I can serve, but whether I am there or not, Tibetan
spirit will remain, that I am quite sure. Now, last 60 years -- 50 years, 60 years,
the new generations come, old generations gone, but Tibetan spirit as strong as before,
sometimes every stronger.
[ Applause ]
>> Tibet is the headwaters. Tibet is the source for three major Asian rivers, Yangtze, Mekong,
and Salween.
>> Dalai Lama: Yes, yes.
>> China is damming, making dams to divert water into China. The question is where do
the affected downstream countries like Burma, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand and Vietnam stand
in pushing back or aiding Tibet? If fear of repercussions from Chinese authorities keeps
countries from speaking out, how will the reactions build as Chinese control increases
due to the need for water. What nonviolent actions can be taken now and by home?
>> Dalai Lama: [Translation] As this is very, very important, wildlife commitment is ecology.
Ecology is some Chinese ecologist, they discard Tibetan plateau is Third World, because on
global warming, from Tibetan plateau is as much as North Pole and the South Pole, so
he describes the Tibetan plateau as Third World, and then Tibetan plateau -- that Third
World, rather positive delicate because again it is just some scientists say, the rate of
global warming or whatever [translation] a rate of warming, globally is zero point one.
Tibetan plateau zero point three. Because of high altitude and dry climate, some more
serious then during my lifetime [inaudible] [translation] the river flow has really gone
down. Some cases during say spring or some cases, certainly increase the water pressure
like that. So anyway, this as you mentioned, these major rivers which, I believe I think
over billions human beings life depend on this water. So it is that obviously all not
in India. This water come from Tibet is there [translation] livelihood. So therefore it
is serious matter, take care of this ecology in Tibet and these waters, these waters, these
rivers and also very important to not bruise it. Some cases as in nearby river some factories
and mining and that bruised water. Some varies, some sort of [translation] unprecedented sort
of business and in some cases wild animal, number of wild animal died, because of the
pollution of the water. So it is really serious so now I can go on practical thing is, I'm
always suggesting some environmental group or some government officials and some individuals
who have interest in ecology, then go to Tibet with full corporation of Chinese ecologist,
because this is interest for everyone, not political matter. So go to -- go to Tibet
and support, have some investigation how much damage already done and what now mattered
-- to recover this damage and then most important, how to take special precautions not damaging
ecology. So Chinese also need these kind of investigations, with full cooperation Chinese
specialists, I think you can do, I think you can do although some of these local Chinese
officials really narrow-minded, so sometimes they put unnecessary restrictions. Okay, it
is important to try, I feel. Then after sort of trial research and then I think can make
some suggestions to concerned country, political Chinese government. Like that, that's my view.
>> What are your future plans after stepping down from the role of a political leader for
Tibet?
>> Dalai Lama: Nothing, nothing new of course the responsibility of the political role,
now handed over or two elected political leaders actually, last ten years my position -- same
title position [inaudible] 2001 we already issued political leadership. Since then my
position is same as that position, since something like figurehead. Now I retired all of that
formal [translation] former responsibility so that I have more time for my true commitment.
That is number one commitment, emotional human value, the second commitment promotion of
harmony. Now the rest of my life, of course, since many years I was telling a true responsibility,
true commitment number one commitment emotional human value, second promotion of harmony,
these two my lifelong commitment. Then third commitment is about Tibetan rule [inaudible]
and political rule. Now that commitment I always make clear there's limitation. Now
time come and I really feel proud I am this four century old tradition. The Dalai institution
is the head of both [inaudible] political and spiritual. One reason I always telling
people the religious institution and political institution should be separate. So while I'm
telling other people, I myself hold both [chuckle] so that is hypocrisy... hypocratic expression.
So now I make it very clear, now I'm simply spiritual leader, one of the spiritual leader.
All political is over. So that I took voluntarily, happily and proudly and another thing, a selfish
reason. The four -- almost four century old tradition voluntarily and it's much better
than due to some pressure that end is not nice. [Laughter] So I also suggesting since
just a few years, I offer a suggestion to the Chinese Communist Party, now should think
gradually retirement, Chinese Communist Party retirement.
[ Applause ]
>> Dalai Lama: Retirement... retirement with grace is much better. Like Judo these things
is some better retirement from desperate not good, disgrace, is it. So now I already demonstrate
in the eyes of those Chinese Communist Party, I voluntarily now retire [laughter]. I think
we saw community is our community of about 150,000 Tibetan, we fully sort of engage in
democratic practice. I think as far as democratic practice is concerned, we saw community much,
much advanced like that. So I think eventually the Chinese government also can learn from
our experience [laughter]. So in anyway, the people from China most populated nation and
Chinese people 5,000 year old culture or history, civilization and generally Chinese people
are cultured people and hard working and realistic. So look wherever Chinese community, group
or bigger number of Chinese community there, they create China Town. Chinese [translation]
character and Chinese food are everywhere. It is true, they adopted [translation] the
local sort of ritualistic people and productive. Meantime, kept ducks. They're really wonderful.
So I often tell my Indian friend, why not where Indian community there, Indian Town?
Initially it's the same, where Indian community is there also, you see they have some temples,
like that so they carry some [inaudible] which is these things. But didn't create the name
Indian Town. So China Town there, Indian Town must be. [Laughter] And [translation] Mayo
Clinic, some Indian physicians there so among the professions, a number of Indians like
that. So therefore, so anyway the Chinese people are really realistic, hard working,
practical people. Now economy also is growing well, although the [inaudible] that's quite
terrible and corruption, India's corruption. That's really sad. I'd always quite healthy
sort of way going so therefore, eventually I always telling my Chinese friend, "It is
[inaudible] that one point at [inaudible] human population." That Republic is a most
public nation deserve to become superpower, but in order to become superpower, respect,
trust from the rest of the world is very essential. Without that, just a military power brings
more fear, more distrust. So therefore in order to bring trust, respect from rest of
the world, China should carry transparency. That's very important. Close society is too
much censorship and assassination -- I often tell my Chinese friend, "1.3 billion Chinese
people have every right to know the reality and also 1.3 billion Chinese people also have
the ability to judge what is right and what is wrong. With that set of circumstances...
[ Applause ]
>> Dalai Lama: ...censorship and distorted information is immoral, fooling their own
people. So therefore I think China being a democracy immediately, that I have some reservation.
If the central authority collapse, then there could be [inaudible] situation. This nobody's
interest... gradual change as I mentioned earlier, gradually the communist party now,
I think China's Communist Party at the young age, junior socialist communist. Now, old
age, China's Communist. Now, capitalistic communist [laughter]. Now perhaps next stage,
gracefully retire. [Laughter] So anyway, I think the practice of introduce transparent,
freedom of information, eventually independent judiciary, that I think must start. That's
my feeling, my view. Of course, that's ... I saw some of the latest Chinese hard liners,
that's the real demons to rebuke [laughter]. They just call me as a demon, demon so when
I heard that first time, I immediately acted... oh, I have this horn, a demon horn [laughter].
This I did, very, very childish, but silly. Next question?
>> Your Holiness, how can one live peacefully, at peace when he has so many responsibilities
on a day to day basis such as work, family and so on?
>> Dalai Lama: Yes, if someone really feels peace means no problem, then that kind of
peace is impossible to achieve. [Laughter] I can only answer for that should end your
life [laughter]. Then, no problem. [Laughter] That also silly. So while we a life, live
surrounded some kind of problems. That's quite nature. So it is wise to find inner peace,
inner strength, then no matter what's surrounding, that can be possible. I think of course, I'm
a monk, celibate, no problem in our family or children or these things [laughter] but
equally I have a lot of problems, but one problem start, one problem face, some disturbance
in my mind. But then gone... on the surface, usually I describe like ocean. On the surface,
wave comes and goes, comes and goes but underneath always calm. That we can do, [inaudible] and
possibly inner strength, these two combine, you can maintain inner peace, no matter what's
surrounding. And after all, the centuries one Buddhist master, Buddhist philosopher
expressed [translation] his advice was that when dealing with problem, if you see that
there's a solution to it, then there's no need to be overwhelmed. But if there's no
solution to the problem, then there is no point in being overwhelmed. [Laughter and
applause] That's a very practical suggestion.
[ Applause ]
>> Dalai Lama: It is very, very practical and realistic sort of approach. That we can
do if we use human interest properly, and more of that holistic view, and that we can
maintain. Inner peace no matter what the problems surround you.
>> Please give me your thoughts on how to raise a spiritual child in the 21st Century.
>> Dalai Lama: [Speaking in Tibetan] Generally, I usually you see sort of give the idea or
view three kind of spirituality. One spirituality with concert of God, Judeo-Christian tradition,
Islam tradition, and some others. Then another spirituality like Buddhism, [inaudible] as
I mentioned earlier, ancient other tradition. The belief [inaudible] cause and effect means
action, effective action, effective action, effect. That also one way to develop spirituality
and then there must be a third, without talking, without touching, religious faith, simply
use of common sense and common experience on the base of these things, use our interests.
And then nature for the warmth given by a balance [inaudible] combine these two things,
human interest, human warm heartedness. That also I call secular ethics, secular spiritual.
So that's my idea. So according to your own experience and also judging the mental disposition
of your children make available the information, all these things. Then let them eventually
choose. Without spirituality, without moral principle, no matter what sort of great profession,
it may not be sort of successful. That's quite clear. So that is my view.
>> Two final questions.
>> Dalai Lama: Okay.
>> Is it thought or action that is most effective when it comes to forgiveness, compassion and
happiness?
>> Dalai Lama: I think firstly moderation and moderation brings action. Different moderation
apparently some action is hypocrisy, not genuine. So every human action more effective action
some new direction, you see is in here, my hand go there, is [inaudible] [translation]
mutual action. But more serious action, there must be moderation. So ultimately all the
positive action based on sincere, positive, altruistic moderation. Then moderation alone,
just remain moderation alone, also not so effective. So action, I think both important.
>> If you think you will be able to return to Tibet, how long do you think it will take?
[Translation]
>> Dalai Lama: That I don't know [laughter]. It may take five years, ten years, 15 years,
but if one thing quite clear, People's Republic of China, even the communist party, if it's
in the party... done sort of different opinions now coming and changing... changing. So anyway
I think in the 20th Century, the Bolshevik's revolution, 1916 --17 and then within the
century, it's changed, not by external force, but within the people in the country, through
peaceful means. So many dictators like I think Philippine dictator, Marcos, you see, changed
by popular movement, peaceful movement. Like that is in many part of the world, it happened.
So thing will change and then Cuba, your neighbor here, like Cuba, still Castro, their all still
revolutionary, thier still there, I think his brother, younger brother, basically I
think same ideology but more [inaudible]. Now they also start changing. So after all
as I mentioned earlier, the best way govern the country is by the people, is democratic
system, no question. So eventually, even China also, have to follow that tradition, democractic
pratice there's not a choice . That's what I believe. Thank you.
[ Applause ]
>> Thank you your Holiness. I know that I speak for everyone here, your Holiness when
I say that we are deeply grateful that you have taken the time to speak with us today.
Your message is of immense benefit to us. Thank you [inaudible]. Before we go, I would
like to present the financial accounting for today's events, $100,000 was donated from
the Distinguished Lecturer's Committee and approximately $170,000 was generated through
ticket sales.
[ Applause ]
>> All monies have been used to finance the production of the morning panel discussion
and the afternoon lecture. Included in the production costs are transportation, accommodation
and security fees. Your Holiness, on behalf of the University of Arkansas, thank you so
very much for your presence here today, and your enlightening ideas on issues of such
profound importance to us all. We will not soon forget this afternoon. I ask that all
remain standing as his Holiness exits the stage. For those seated on the floor, please
use the tunnel to your right as you exit from the arena. The tunnel will be open as soon
as his Holiness has departed. Thank you all for joining us today. Be safe on your journey
home.
>> Dalai Lama: Thank you, thank you, thank you. Thank you, thank you, okay.
[ Applause ]
>> Dalai Lama: Those points that I mentioned, anyone who feels some sort of interesting,
some sense, then please think more and try to implement in our own daily life and then
eventually you'll find some sort of [inaudible]. Then those people who feel not nice at all
interest, then forget it, no problem. Thank you. [Laughter]
[ Applause ]
>> Dalai Lama: Thank you.
[ Applause ]
>> Thank you sir. [Background noise ]
>> Dalai Lama: Thank you, so sorry, sorry, sorry, sorry. Okay. Thank you.
>> It was a wonderful thing.
>> Dalai Lama: I appreciate all your work, all your help. Thank you.
>> It was my pleasure.
>> Dalai Lama; Thank you, thank you. [Laughter] Thank you, thank you. Same person.
[ Applause ]
>> Dalai Lama: So, bye bye, thank you.
[ Applause ]