The Dalai Lama appeared at Australia Zoo on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast on June 13. His message was a simple reminder to show more compassion to children and the benefit of not harbouring anger and animosity towards others.
In an era when the practitioners of the major religions have often displayed hypocrisy on issues of peace and tolerance, his visit was welcomed by a sold-out audience. Talking as relaxed as he appeared, at times it felt more like a casual discussion. Sitting amongst the crowd I realised that the world certainly needs more people who preach unconditional tolerance.
Reciting a story about a monk who had been imprisoned by the Chinese for over a decade, he told of the biggest issue the monk faced. The monk apparently said that at times his internment was so difficult that he “was in danger of losing his compassion for the Chinese”. In an age of torture, war, fear and hatred it was humbling to hear just how compassionate some people can be even in the face of great adversity.
The Chinese Government protested loudly about the Australian Prime Minister meeting with the Dalai Lama. After expressing his compassion for all living things, including the Chinese, it makes you wonder why the Chinese want to control who he meets and talks with.
When thousands flock to see pop culture mega stars at concerts, and football stadiums, or gather in club-like gatherings to listen to ‘new-age’ so-called Christian preachers, it was nice to see so many people from a vast range of age groups wanting to see and listen to a man who actually does embody the things he talks about. No matter what people say about the ‘trend’ factor of westernised Buddhism, the Dalai Lama was simply a breath of fresh air.
Image: The Dalai Lama farewells the crowd with the Irwins, at Australia Zoo. Image: G Hardwick copyright 2007.
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