PORTLAND — Before taking questions from the press Saturday morning, the Dalai Lama had something to say.
Pointing to eager reporters in the room he said, “We are all part of humanity,” reminding them that they, too, are responsible for making change.
“The ultimate source of hate comes from too much suspicion, too much restriction, greed and anger,” he said. “The antidote is human affection, the consideration of all human beings.”
He said all religions teach the same values, but added that changing the world is everyone’s concern, not just religious practitioners and faith leaders.
“You should educate people,” he said, promising that he too, would work to educate those who are willing to learn.
Strife comes from lack of understanding, he said, and encouraged the press to use their power to promote mutual understanding and respect, which in turn would foster a sense of appreciation among strangers.
Report on the good, as well as the bad, he said.
Then, the Dalai Lama answered the question he somehow knew was on many of the journalists’ minds.
He has no plans to slow down.
At 77 years old, the Dalai Lama, whose name is Tenzin Gyatso, continues to travel across the globe delivering orations on Buddhism. His stop in Portland was part of a six-city tour. The Oregon visit focused on the environment.
Two years ago he retired from his role as the political leader in the Tibetan exile government.
“I have a responsibility to present Tibetan Buddhist teachings,” he said. “I will always be teaching and lecturing.”
