His Holiness the Dalai Lama Addresses Thousands in Khaltse, Ladakh, Inspiring Compassion and Wisdom
The Buddhist Channel, 29 August 2023
Khaltse, Ladakh, India -- His Holiness the Dalai Lama addressed a huge gathering of over 25,000 people on the teaching ground in Khaltse, Ladakh on 19 August 2023. The attendees, who had come from far and wide, were met with a warm welcome from the spiritual leader, who emphasized the significance of trust, devotion, and the pursuit of a meaningful life.
Greeted by a jubilant crowd, His Holiness expressed gratitude for the heartfelt reception he had received from the assembled devotees. He recounted meeting a 106-year-old woman just moments prior, remarking that such encounters were auspicious and contributed to his own longevity. "The growing number of people who place their trust and faith in me," he stated, "fuels my commitment to live a long life. This support emboldens me to strive to live past the age of 110."
The crowd's applause resonated with joy as His Holiness shared his insights on life's purpose and service to others. He advocated for a life filled with compassion and meaning, underscoring that selfless dedication would yield rewarding outcomes.
His Holiness elaborated on the significance of cultivating an awakening mind of bodhichitta, emphasizing that it generates merit and compassion. By fostering an understanding of emptiness, he explained, wisdom is gained. He encouraged his listeners to engage in active listening, reflection, and practice, highlighting the transformative power of these actions.
Compassion, His Holiness asserted, should extend to all living beings, including deities and spirits, as they too seek happiness and freedom from suffering. He emphasized that conflicts and violence arise from self-centered attitudes and disregard for others' well-being. Viewing all beings as equals and acknowledging their shared human experience, he argued, would pave the way for inner peace and collective happiness.
Reflecting on the Buddha's journey, His Holiness noted that enlightenment was the outcome of cultivating bodhichitta over an extended period. He reminded his audience that wisdom and merit-building were integral to the path to Buddhahood. His Holiness then bestowed a long-life empowerment linked to White Tara, underscoring the importance of a warm-hearted approach to life.
In his closing words, His Holiness expressed his satisfaction with the attendees' unwavering faith and diligent practice. Addressing the issue of caste distinctions, he urged unity and reminded the audience of their shared humanity. "We are all followers of the Buddha," he affirmed, emphasizing the potential for Buddhahood within each individual. He concluded with a call to nurture an awakening mind of bodhichitta through love and compassion.
As the event drew to a close, His Holiness bid farewell to the gathered crowd, leaving them inspired to embark on a journey of compassion, wisdom, and meaningful existence.