It is important that when pursing our own self-interest we should be 'wise selfish' and not 'foolish selfish'. Being foolish selfish means pursuing our own interests in a narrow, shortsighted way. Being wise selfish means taking a broader view and recognizing that our own long-term individual interest lies in the welfare of everyone. Being wise selfish means being compassionate.

It is a wonderful thing if one can use one's place of work as a place of spiritual practice as well.

A mind wishing to benefit other people and other sentient beings is the very basis of peace and happiness.

With realization of one's own potential and self-confidence in one's ability, one can build a better world.

pain is inevitable,suffering is optional... we have bigger houses,but smaller families. More conveniences,but less time. We have knowledge,but less judgements; more experts,but more problems ; more medicines but less health.

Peace is not just the mere absence of violence or disturbance. It's when there is a possibility of conflict, but you deliberately avoid violence and adopt methods to solve the problem through peaceful means. That is real peace.

I became the Dalai Lama not on a volunteer basis.