Adversity? Stay Optimistic!

I do seem to be in a Dalai Lama/Buddhist frame of mind since this class started.  Of course, with my topic he is one of the individuals that make news happen!  This past week the Dalai Lama had an interactive session with students in Gangtok, Sikkim, India on how to stay optimistic during adversarial times.  His message struck me as information that helps manage anxiety, and I figured it would be good to share.

As some of you may know, the Dalai Lama has faced his share of adversity in his lifetime, starting when he was 16 years old.  He’s lost his country and freedom.  However he managed to keep his mental state calm.  How did he do this?  The Dalai Lama states on his video clip, “when things look difficult, accept that.  When we face a problem, investigate that problem, nature of that problem.  If that problem can work on it through effort, than no need worry.  If that problem no need to work on it, than no use to worry.  Very realistic approach.”

I loved how simplistic his advice is!  It might be stating the obvious; however for those with anxiety issues, it’s not so obvious when in the middle of an anxiety attack.  As the Dalai Lama said, “Try it, in order to keep our emotion mind calm, than no matter what the situation, you can be happy person, and useful for other people.”

Now, I just need to have this advice tattooed on me somewhere I can see it all the time…

International Conference for Science, Spirituality and Education

Yesterday, His Holiness the Dalai Lama opened the International Conference for Science, Spirituality and Education talking about the changing role of science.  He said people told him to be careful because science is a killer of religion.  He thought carefully about it and determined “without investigation, you cannot find reality.”  He said we have to investigate.  He also quoted the Buddha, stating “You should not accept my teaching of your faith and devotion, but rather investigate and experiment.”  The Dalai Lama said once you investigate, you have the right to reject what you learn.

He made three points in the opening address:

1. Modern science is the feat of external things, really remarkable, yet also about inner science, inner mind, peace.
2. World peace cannot come through prayer or blessing, but through action.  Buddha’s blessing must go through your hands. 
3. The final results come through practice.  It’s important to preserve Buddhist culture--through education.

He had many interesting and contemplative points that I do not have the space to devote the attention they deserve on this blog.  If you are interested, please view the full video.  Please note that it is 42 minutes long.