The Dalai Lama has quit politics. Still he urges us to practice compassion in order to solve world problems in Road to Peace: Ancient Wisdom of the 14th Dalai Lama of Tibet.
Old friends and newcomers flock to see Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama, during a 2008 visit to the United Kingdom. Behind-the-scenes coverage reveal the personal side of Tibet’s spiritual leader, who won the Nobel Peace Prize.
Road to Peace is now streaming free at Fanetwork.tv. Leon Stuparich directs.
A century of dialogue
“Destruction of your enemy is destruction of yourself,” he warns. He envisions a new era of productive dialogue among people everywhere, informed by love and compassion.
Speaking to Christians and Buddhists at a colloquium, the Dalai Lama reminded the group that love and compassion are common values in every religion. “We have a direct connection with God.”
One participant, Friar Eugene McCaffrey, a Carmelite priest and author, learned that faith must begin “within the human heart and the human spirit.”
Peace begins within
Expressing frustration and compassion for the Chinese government, the Dalai Lama resigned as political leader of the Central Tibetan Administration in 2011.
China first invaded Tibet in 1949. Reports of human rights abuses, “patriotic re-education” and atrocities have followed. Since 1959 when he took refuge in Dharamsala, India, he has never returned to his homeland.
Most Tibetans do not seek independence from China, but a genuine autonomy within it that protects their religion and culture.
Beyond religion
Many grin with tears in their eyes as they meet him. They call him charming, natural, friendly and humorous. He is a living example of love in action. With unconditional love, he reminds us who we are in a troubled world.
The Dalai Lama will visit Australia next year. Some 5% of the profits from Road to Peace are being donated to Tibet House Trust.
“If we combine our knowledge, skills and expertise with our will power and determination, then no matter what problems we face, we can solve those problems forever,” he assures us. Compassion, honesty and justice are called for.
“So endless,” he observes. “Learning, learning, learning.”
If you like Road to Peace: Ancient Wisdom of the 14th Dalai Lama of Tibet, you might enjoy: Dalai Lama Renaissance; Samsara.
Road to Peace: Ancient Wisdom of the 14th Dalai Lama of Tibet / 2012 / NR / 1 hour, 4 min
Cast Overview: Tenzin Gyatso, Geshe Thupten Jinpa, Phillipa Clark, Riki Hyde-Chambers, Dr. Jonathan Mirsky, Arjahn Sumedho, Joanna Lumley
Directors: Leon Stuparich
Genres: Documentary