It is my fundamental conviction that compassion - the natural capacity of the human heart to feel concern for and connection with another human being - constitutes a basic aspect of our nature shared by all human beings, as well as being the foundation of our happiness. All ethical teachings, whether religious or nonreligious, aim to nurture this innate and precious quality, to develop it and to perfect it.

The development of a kind heart, or feeling of closeness for all human beings, does not involve any of the kind of religiosity we normally associate with it...It is for everyone, irrespective of race, religion or any political affiliation.

When you engage in fulfilling the needs of others, your own needs are fulfilled as a by-product.

I am not promoting Buddhism. I am promoting human values.

Treat each person as you would an old friend.

As long as I am alive, I am fully committed to amity between Tibetans and Chinese. Otherwise there's no use.

Genuine happiness and compassion go hand in hand.