Dalai Lama

Question 1

Give the ones you love the wings to fly, roots to come back, and reasons to stay.

Answer 1

Inspiring Dalai Lama quotes on life, love, and a healthy mind

Question 2

We can live without religion and meditation, but we cannot survive without human affection.

Answer 2

Dalai Lama

Question 3

If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion.

Answer 3

Dalai Lama

Question 4

Although you may not always be able to avoid difficult situations, you can modify the extent to which you can suffer by how you choose to respond to the situation.

Answer 4

Dalai Lama

Question 5

Happiness is not something readymade. It comes from your own actions.

Answer 5

Dalai Lama

Question 6

Time passes unhindered. When we make mistakes, we cannot turn the clock back and try again. All we can do is use the present well.

Answer 6

Dalai Lama

Question 7

An open heart is an open mind.

Answer 7

Dalai Lama

Question 8

The goal is not to be better than the other man, but your previous self.

Answer 8

Dalai Lama

Question 9

An eye for an eye….we are all blind.

Answer 9

Dalai Lama

Question 10

Remember that the best relationship is one in which your love for each other exceeds your need for each other.

Answer 10

Dalai Lama

Question 11

Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible.

Answer 11

Dalai Lama

Question 12

The roots of all goodness lie in the soil of appreciation.

Answer 12

Dalai Lama

Question 13

Silence is sometimes the best answer.

Answer 13

Dalai Lama

Question 14

In our struggle for freedom, truth is the only weapon we possess.

Answer 14

Dalai Lama

Question 15

Know the rules well, so you can break them effectively.

Answer 15

Dalai Lama

Question 16

Choose to be optimistic, it feels better.

Answer 16

Dalai Lama

Question 17

Love is the absence of judgement.

Answer 17

Dalai Lama

Question 18

The ultimate source of happiness is not money and power, but warm-heartedness.

Answer 18

Dalai Lama

Question 19

Judge your success by what you had to give up in order to get it.

Answer 19

Dalai Lama

Question 20

It is very rare or almost impossible that an event can be negative from all points of view.

Answer 20

Dalai Lama

Question 21

People take different roads seeking fulfillment and happiness. Just because they’re not on your road doesn’t mean they’ve gotten lost.

Answer 21

Dalai Lama

Question 22

The whole purpose of religion is to facilitate love and compassion, patience, tolerance, humility, and forgiveness.

Answer 22

Dalai Lama

Question 23

If you think you are too small to make a difference, try sleeping with a mosquito.

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Dalai Lama

Question 24

Only the development of compassion and understanding for others can bring us the tranquility and happiness we all seek.

Answer 24

Dalai Lama

Question 25

Take into account that great love and great achievements involve great risk.

Answer 25

Dalai Lama

Question 26

The ultimate authority must always rest with the individual’s own reason and critical analysis.

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Dalai Lama

Question 27

Share your knowledge. It is a way to achieve immortality.

Answer 27

Dalai Lama

Question 28

When you realize you’ve made a mistake, take immediate steps to correct it.

Answer 28

Dalai Lama

Question 29

Love and compassion are necessities not luxuries. Without them humanities cannot survive.

Answer 29

Dalai Lama

Question 30

Let us try to recognize the precious nature of each day.

Answer 30

Dalai Lama

Question 31

World peace must develop from inner peace. Peace is not just mere absence of violence. Peace is, I think, the manifestation of human compassion.

Answer 31

Dalai Lama

Question 32

All suffering is caused by ignorance. People inflict pain on others in the selfish pursuit of their own happiness or satisfaction.

Answer 32

Dalai Lama

Question 33

The creatures that inhabit this earth-be they human beings or animals-are here to contribute, each in its own particular way, to the beauty and prosperity of the world.

Answer 33

Dalai Lama

Question 34

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

Answer 34

Dalai Lama

Question 35

Compassion is the radicalism of our times.

Answer 35

Dalai Lama

Question 36

The more you are motivated by love, the more fearless & free your action will be.

Answer 36

Dalai Lama

Question 37

Neither a space station nor an enlightened mind can be realized in a day.

Answer 37

Dalai Lama

Question 38

To conquer oneself is a greater victory than to conquer thousands in a battle.

Answer 38

Dalai Lama

Question 39

A good friend who points out mistakes and imperfections and rebukes evil is to be respected as if he reveals the secret of some hidden treasure.

Answer 39

Dalai Lama

Question 40

The way to change others’ minds is with affection, and not anger.

Answer 40

Dalai Lama

Question 41

Happy people build their inner world; unhappy people blame their outer world.

Answer 41

Dalai Lama

Question 42

A disciplined mind leads to happiness, and an undisciplined mind leads to suffering.

Answer 42

Dalai Lama

Question 43

In the practice of tolerance, one’s enemy is the best teacher.

Answer 43

Dalai Lama

Question 44

Because we all share this planet earth, we have to learn to live in harmony and peace with each other and with nature. This is not just a dream, but a necessity.

Answer 44

Dalai Lama

Question 45

Anger or hatred is like a fisherman’s hook. It is very important for us to ensure that we are not caught by it.

Answer 45

Dalai Lama

Question 46

Irrespective of whether we are believers or agnostics, whether we believe in God or karma, moral ethics is a code which everyone is able to pursue.

Answer 46

Dalai Lama

Question 47

Remember sometimes not getting what you want is a wonderful stroke of luck.

Answer 47

Dalai Lama

Question 48

Our prime purpose in this life is to help others. If you can’t help them at least don’t hurt them.

Answer 48

Dalai Lama

Question 49

Where ignorance is our master, there is no possibility of real peace.

Answer 49

Dalai Lama

Question 50

Anger is the ultimate destroyer of your own peace of mind.

Answer 50

Dalai Lama

Question 51

Compassion naturally creates a positive atmosphere, and as a result you feel peaceful and content.

Answer 51

Dalai Lama

Question 52

It is under the greatest adversity that there exists the greatest potential for doing good, both for oneself and others.

Answer 52

Dalai Lama

Question 53

The true hero is one who conquers his own anger and hatred.

Answer 53

Dalai Lama

Question 54

Through violence, you may ‘solve’ one problem, but you sow the seeds for another.

Answer 54

Dalai Lama

Question 55

I defeat my enemies when I make them my friends.

Answer 55

Dalai Lama

Question 56

Our ancient experience confirms at every point that everything is linked together, everything is inseparable.

Answer 56

Dalai Lama

Question 57

Love and Compassion are the true religions to me. But to develop this, we do not need to believe in any religion.

Answer 57

Dalai Lama

Question 58

Someone else’s action should not determine your response.

Answer 58

Dalai Lama

Question 59

We can never obtain peace in the outer world until we make peace with ourselves.

Answer 59

Dalai Lama

Question 60

Happiness doesn’t always come from a pursuit. Sometimes it comes when we least expect it.

Answer 60

Dalai Lama

Question 61

We need to learn how to want what we have NOT to have what we want in order to get steady and stable Happiness

Answer 61

Dalai Lama

Question 62

When we meet real tragedy in life, we can react in two ways – either by losing hope and falling into self-destructive habits, or by using the challenge to find our inner strength.

Answer 62

Dalai Lama

Question 63

My religion is very simple. My religion is kindness.

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Dalai Lama

Question 64

The topic of compassion is not at all religious business; it is important to know it is human business, it is a question of human survival.

Answer 64

Dalai Lama

Question 65

Sometimes one creates a dynamic impression by saying something, and sometimes one creates as significant an impression by remaining silent

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Dalai Lama

Question 66

This is my simple religion. There is no need for temples; no need for complicated philosophy. Our own brain, our own heart is our temple; the philosophy is kindness.

Answer 66

Dalai Lama

Question 67

Once a year, go somewhere you’ve never been before.

Answer 67

Dalai Lama

Question 68

When we feel love and kindness towards others, it not only makes others feel loved and cared for, but it also helps us to develop inner happiness and peace.

Answer 68

Dalai Lama

Question 69

Whether one is rich or poor, educated or illiterate, religious or non-believing, man or woman, black, white, or brown, we are all the same. Physically, emotionally, and mentally, we are all equal. We all share basic needs for food, shelter, safety, and love. We all aspire to happiness and we all shun suffering. Each of us has hopes, worries, fears, and dreams. Each of us wants the best for our family and loved ones. We all experience pain when we suffer loss and joy when we achieve what we seek. On this fundamental level, religion, ethnicity, culture, and language make no difference.

Answer 69

Dalai Lama

Question 70

As you breathe in, cherish yourself. As you breathe out, cherish all beings.

Answer 70

Dalai Lama

Question 71

Sleep is the best meditation.

Answer 71

Dalai Lama

Question 72

As people alive today, we must consider future generations: a clean environment is a human right like any other. It is, therefore, part of our responsibility toward others to ensure that the world we pass on is as healthy, if not healthier than we found it.

Answer 72

Dalai Lama

Question 73

We begin from the recognition that all beings cherish happiness and do not want to suffer. It then becomes both morally wrong and pragmatically unwise to pursue only one’s own happiness oblivious to the feelings and aspirations of all others who surround us as members of the same human family. The wiser course is to think of others when pursuing our own happiness.

Answer 73

Dalai Lama

Question 74

I believe compassion to be one of the few things we can practice that will bring immediate and long-term happiness to our lives. I’m not talking about the short-term gratification of pleasures like sex, drugs, or gambling (though I’m not knocking them), but something that will bring true and lasting happiness. The kind that sticks.

Answer 74

Dalai Lama

Question 75

Cultivating a close, warmhearted feeling for others automatically puts the mind at ease. It helps remove whatever fears or insecurities we may have and gives us the strength to cope with any obstacles we encounter. It is the principal source of success in life. Since we are not solely material creatures, it is a mistake to place all our hopes for happiness on external development alone. The key is to develop inner peace.

Answer 75

Dalai Lama

Question 76

I find hope in the darkest days, and focus in the brightest.

Answer 76

Dalai Lama

Question 77

When you practice gratefulness, there is a sense of respect toward others.

Answer 77

Dalai Lama

Question 78

There is only one important point you must keep in your mind and let it be your guide. No matter what people call you, you are just who you are. Keep to this truth. You must ask yourself how you want to live your life. We live and we die, this is the truth that we can only face alone. No one can help us, not even the Buddha. So consider carefully, what prevents you from living the way you want to live your life?

Answer 78

Dalai Lama

Question 79

We are the controller of technology. If we become slaves to technology, then that’s not good.

Answer 79

Dalai Lama

Question 80

Those who have little interest in spirituality shouldn’t think that human inner values don’t apply to you. The inner peace of an alert and calm mind are the source of real happiness and good health. Our human intelligence tells us which of our emotions are positive and helpful and which are damaging and to be restrained or avoided.

Answer 80

Dalai Lama

Question 81

I will not propose to you that my way is best. The decision is up to you. If you find some point which may be suitable to you, then you can carry out experiments for yourself. If you find that it is of no use, then you can discard it.

Answer 81

Dalai Lama

Question 82

In order to carry out a positive action we must develop a positive vision.

Answer 82

Dalai Lama

Question 83

Most people prefer a smile to a frown. It’s human nature. Even dogs respond with wagging tails to a smile and other shows of affection.

Answer 83

Dalai Lama

Question 84

Inner peace is the key: if you have inner peace, the external problems do not affect your deep sense of peace and tranquility…without this inner peace, no matter how comfortable your life is materially, you may still be worried, disturbed, or unhappy because of circumstances.

Answer 84

Dalai Lama

Question 85

We all have the power of thought—so what are you lacking? If you have willpower, then you can change anything.

Answer 85

Dalai Lama

Question 86

You must not hate those who do wrong or harmful things; but with compassion, you must do what you can to stop them — for they are harming themselves, as well as those who suffer from their actions.

Answer 86

Dalai Lama

Question 87

Optimism doesn’t mean that you are blind to the reality of the situation. It means that you remain motivated to seek a solution to whatever problems arise.

Answer 87

Dalai Lama

Question 88

Peace does not mean an absence of conflicts; differences will always be there. Peace means solving these differences through peaceful means; through dialogue, education, knowledge; and through humane ways.

Answer 88

Dalai Lama

Question 89

Hard times build determination and inner strength. Through them, we can also come to appreciate the uselessness of anger. Instead of getting angry, nurture a deep caring and respect for troublemakers because by creating such trying circumstances they provide us with invaluable opportunities to practice tolerance and patience.

Answer 89

Dalai Lama

Question 90

When we are motivated by compassion and wisdom, the results of our actions benefit everyone, not just our individual selves or some immediate convenience. When we are able to recognize and forgive ignorant actions of the past, we gain strength to constructively solve the problems of the present.

Answer 90

Dalai Lama

Question 91

I believe the very purpose of our life is to seek happiness. Whether one believes in religion or not, whether one believes in that religion or this religion, we are all seeking something better in life. So, I think, the very motion of our life is towards happiness.

Answer 91

Dalai Lama

Question 92

Just one small positive thought in the morning can change your whole day.

Answer 92

Dalai Lama

Question 93

“Compassion is the radicalism of our time.”

Answer 93

Dalai Lama

Question 94

If someone has a gun and is trying to kill you, it would be reasonable to shoot back with your own gun.

Answer 94

Dalai Lama

Question 95

Where ignorance is our master, there is no possibility of real peace.

Answer 95

Dalai Lama

Question 96

Irrespective of whether we are believers or agnostics, whether we believe in God or karma, moral ethics is a code which everyone is able to pursue.

Answer 96

Dalai Lama

Question 97

Never give up. No matter what is going on. Never give up.

Answer 97

Dalai Lama

Question 98

Don’t ever mistake my silence for ignorance, my calmness for acceptance or my kindness for weakness. Compassion and tolerance are not a sign of weakness, but a sign of strength.

Answer 98

Dalai Lama

Question 99

Optimism leads to success; pessimism leads to defeat.

Answer 99

Dalai Lama

Question 100

When we are motivated by compassion and wisdom, the results of our actions benefit everyone, not just our individual selves or some immediate convenience. When we are able to recognize and forgive ignorant actions of the past, we gain strength to constructively solve the problems of the present.

Answer 100

Dalai Lama

Question 101

If you have fear of some pain or suffering, you should examine whether there is anything you can do about it. If you can, there is no need to worry about it; if you cannot do anything, then there is also no need to worry.

Answer 101

Dalai Lama

Question 102

Anger or hatred is like a fisherman’s hook. It is very important for us to ensure that we are not caught by it.

Answer 102

Dalai Lama

Question 103

An open heart is an open mind.

Answer 103

Dalai Lama

Question 104

Smile if you want a smile from another face.

Answer 104

Dalai Lama

Question 105

I believe the ultimate source of blessings is within us.

Answer 105

Dalai Lama

Question 106

Open your arms to change but don’t let go of your values.

Answer 106

Dalai Lama

Question 107

Instead of wondering WHY this is happening to you, consider why this is happening to YOU.

Answer 107

Dalai Lama

Question 108

An eye for an eye… we are all blind.

Answer 108

Dalai Lama

Question 109

A disciplined mind leads to happiness, and an undisciplined mind leads to suffering.

Answer 109

Dalai Lama

Question 110

I have always had this view about the modern education system: we pay attention to brain development, but the development of warmheartedness we take for granted.

Answer 110

Dalai Lama

Question 111

In the practice of tolerance, one’s enemy is the best teacher.

Answer 111

Dalai Lama

Question 112

To remain indifferent to the challenges we face is indefensible. If the goal is noble, whether or not it is realized within our lifetime is largely irrelevant. What we must do therefore is to strive and persevere and never give up.

Answer 112

Dalai Lama

Question 113

Because we all share this planet earth, we have to learn to live in harmony and peace with each other and with nature. This is not just a dream, but a necessity.

Answer 113

Dalai Lama

Question 114

I believe that to meet the challenges of our times, human beings will have to develop a greater sense of universal responsibility. Each of us must learn to work not just for oneself, one’s own family, or nation, but for the benefit of all humankind. Universal responsibility is the key to human survival. It is the best foundation for world peace.

Answer 114

Dalai Lama

Question 115

Compassion is not religious business, it is human business, it is not luxury, it is essential for our own peace and mental stability, it is essential for human survival.

Answer 115

Dalai Lama

Question 116

The creation of a more peaceful and happier society has to begin from the level of the individual, and from there it can expand to one’s family, to one’s neighborhood, to one’s community and so on.

Answer 116

Dalai Lama

Question 117

In order to become prosperous, a person must initially work very hard, so he or she has to sacrifice a lot of leisure time.

Answer 117

Dalai Lama

Question 118

There are two kinds of compassion. The first comes from a natural concern for friends and family who are close to us. This has limited range but can be the seed for something bigger. We can also learn to extend a genuine concern for others’ well-being, whoever they are. That is real compassion, and only human beings are capable of developing it.

Answer 118

Dalai Lama

Question 119

Neither a space station nor an enlightened mind can be realized in a day.

Answer 119

Dalai Lama

Question 120

Action is more important than meditation.

Answer 120

Dalai Lama

Question 121

Old friends pass away, new friends appear. It is just like the days. An old day passes, a new day arrives. The important thing is to make it meaningful: a meaningful friend – or a meaningful day.

Answer 121

Dalai Lama

Question 122

Virtually all of us have benefited from our mother’s affection at the start of our lives. When someone is on their deathbed if he or she is surrounded by loved ones they can pass away peacefully. From birth to death we all need affection.

Answer 122

Dalai Lama

Question 123

I don’t know whether the universe, with its countless galaxies, stars, and planets, has a deeper meaning or not, but at the very least, it is clear that we humans who live on this earth face the task of making a happy life for ourselves. Therefore, it is important to discover what will bring about the greatest degree of happiness.

Answer 123

Dalai Lama

Question 124

All major religious traditions carry basically the same message, that is love, compassion, and forgiveness. The important thing is they should be part of our daily lives.

Answer 124

Dalai Lama

Question 125

Human potential is the same for all. Your feeling, “I am of no value”, is wrong. Absolutely wrong. You are deceiving yourself. We all have the power of thought – so what are you lacking? If you have willpower, then you can change anything. It is usually said that you are your own master.

Answer 125

Dalai Lama

Question 126

To be kind, honest and have positive thoughts; to forgive those who harm us and treat everyone as a friend; to help those who are suffering and never to consider ourselves superior to anyone else: even if this advice seems rather simplistic, make the effort of seeing whether by following it you can find greater happiness.

Answer 126

Dalai Lama

Question 127

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

Answer 127

Dalai Lama

Question 128

If a problem can be solved it will be. If it can not be solved there is no use worrying about it.

Answer 128

Dalai Lama

Question 129

Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible.

Answer 129

Dalai Lama

Question 130

If you have fear of some pain or suffering, you should examine whether there is anything you can do about it. If you can, there is no need to worry about it; if you cannot do anything, then there is also no need to worry.

Answer 130

Dalai Lama

Question 131

The purpose of all the major religious traditions is not to construct big temples on the outside, but to create temples of goodness and compassion inside, in our hearts.

Answer 131

Dalai Lama

Question 132

Because motivation pervades all action, it is important that we have a positive motivation. Whatever we are involved in, whether it’s politics, education, medicine, law, engineering, science, business or industry, the nature of our motivation determines the character of our work.

Answer 132

Dalai Lama

Question 133

When you realize you’ve made a mistake, take immediate steps to correct it.

Answer 133

Dalai Lama

Question 134

Proper utilization of time is so important. While we have this body, and especially this amazing human brain, I think every minute is something precious.

Answer 134

Dalai Lama

Question 135

Let us try to recognize the precious nature of each day.

Answer 135

Dalai Lama

Question 136

Home is where you feel at home and are treated well.

Answer 136

Dalai Lama

Question 137

World peace must develop from inner peace. Peace is not just the mere absence of violence. Peace is, I think, the manifestation of human compassion.

Answer 137

Dalai Lama

Question 138

We all have to live together, so we might as well live together happily.

Answer 138

Dalai Lama

Question 139

Only the development of compassion and understanding for others can bring us the tranquility and happiness we all seek.

Answer 139

Dalai Lama

Question 140

The important thing is that men should have a purpose in life. It should be something useful, something good.

Answer 140

Dalai Lama

Question 141

When we meet real tragedy in life, we can react in two ways–either by losing hope and falling into self-destructive habits or by using the challenge to find our inner strength.

Answer 141

Dalai Lama

Question 142

As individuals, we can influence our own families. Our families can influence our communities and our communities can influence our nations.

Answer 142

Dalai Lama

Question 143

Even an animal, if you show genuine affection, gradually trust develops… If you are always showing a bad face and beating, how can you develop friendship?

Answer 143

Dalai Lama

Question 144

The remedy is to look deeper and recognize that we human beings are physically, mentally, and emotionally the same.

Answer 144

Dalai Lama

Question 145

Calm mind brings inner strength and self-confidence, so that’s very important for good health.

Answer 145

Dalai Lama

Question 146

Every day, think as you wake up, today I am fortunate to be alive, I have a precious human life, I am not going to waste it. I am going to use all my energies to develop myself, to expand my heart out to others; to achieve enlightenment for the benefit of all beings. I am going to have kind thoughts towards others, I am not going to get angry or think badly about others. I am going to benefit others as much as I can.

Answer 146

Dalai Lama

Question 147

Too much self-centered attitude, you see, brings, you see, isolation. Result: loneliness, fear, anger. The extreme self-centered attitude is the source of suffering.

Answer 147

Dalai Lama

Question 148

If we are sincere in taking care of others, if we protect their lives and respect their rights, we’ll be able to conduct our lives transparently and that is the basis of trust, which in turn is the basis of friendship.

Answer 148

Dalai Lama

Question 149

Be honest, truthful, and altruistic. If you concern yourself with taking care of others, there’ll be no room for lies, bullying, and cheating. If you’re truthful you can live transparently, which will enable you to establish trust, the basis for making friends.

Answer 149

Dalai Lama

Question 150

It’s good to remember that other human beings are like us. We are born the same way; we die the same way. While we’re alive it’s better to be able to trust each other as friends.

Answer 150

Dalai Lama

Question 151

Friendship depends on trust, not money, not power, not mere education or knowledge. Only if there is trust will there be friendship.

Answer 151

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Question 152

The planet does not need more successful people. The planet desperately needs more peacemakers, healers, restorers, storytellers, and lovers of all kinds.

Answer 152

Dalai Lama

Question 153

When we feel love and kindness toward others, it not only makes others feel loved and cared for, but it also helps us to develop inner happiness and peace.

Answer 153

Dalai Lama

Question 154

Even when we have physical hardships, we can be very happy.

Answer 154

Dalai Lama