Insights from the Dalai Lama


Peace of mind is crucial for good health. Of course, good facilities, the right medicine and food also make a difference. But happiness is the most important factor for good heath.

Consider that in order for you to become enlightened, the practice of patience is essential.

The awakening mind is also compared to the sun because when the sun has risen, not only is darkness unable to obscure it, but even a single ray of sunlight can dispel darkness.

I think that both humans and animals have an innate appreciation for the truth. If we treat dogs or cats sincerely, they appreciate it. If we cheat them, they realize that, and don’t like it.

It is doubtful that problems can be solved with anger. Although it may lead to temporary success with regard to the immediate aim and yield some satisfaction for a brief period, ultimately anger will cause further difficulties.

The mind has primacy over the body, and thus human behavior is determined by the mind. When the mind is not properly disciplined or controlled, all kinds of problems arise.

A truly compassionate attitude toward others does not change even if they behave negatively or hurt you.

When you die you go alone, and the only light to accompany you derives from the spiritual practice or positive acts you have done.

The consciousness or mind is just a subtle energy upon which everything can be reflected.

What do we understand by meditation? From the Buddhist point of view, meditation is a spiritual discipline, and one that allows you to have some control over your thoughts and emotions.

You see, the past is past and the future is yet to come. That means the future is in our hands – the future entirely depends on the present. That realization gives you a great responsibility.

If one’s life is simple, contentment has to come. Simplicity is extremely important for happiness. Having few desires, feeling satisfied with that you have, is very vital: satisfaction with just enough food, clothing, and shelter to protect yourself from the elements. And finally, there is an intense delight in abandoning faulty states of mind and in cultivation helpful ones in meditation.

When we develop deep conviction in the law of cause and effect, we will be able to perceive the causes and conditions of out own sufferings. Our present happiness or unhappiness is nothing more than the result of previous actions.

Indulgence in resentment and vengeance will only further increase miseries to oneself and others in this life and in lives to come.

A heart full of love and compassion is the main source of inner strength, willpower, happiness, and mental tranquility.

Some people, sweet and attractive, and strong and healthy, happen to die young. They are masters in disguise teaching us about impermanence.