We have a basic instinct for compassion, but we need to develop it. Concern for others is related to human rights and everyone needs to be assured of their human rights because everyone wants and has a right to be happy.
When I meet people, I just think of myself as another human being, I don’t think about being a Buddhist, a Tibetan or the Dalai Lama, just a human being — I find it’s easier to make friends that way. And I find that a smile is a true expression of friendship.
For most of us, our mother is our first teacher. In my own case, it was my mother who first revealed to me the power of compassion. Since they are especially skilled in nurturing compassion and human values, we need women to take the lead in creating a more compassionate society.
As we teach children to observe physical hygiene for its health benefits, we need to teach them to cultivate emotional hygiene — to tackle destructive emotions and find peace of mind.
Peace is not brought about through conflict, but through compassion — creating peace of mind within ourselves. We all need compassion and women can take a lead role in bringing this about. My own first teacher of kindness and compassion was my mother.
Wherever I go, I try to cultivate a sense of the oneness of humanity. I see everyone I meet as being essentially the same. And people respond positively to this. Animals too. Fear leads to isolation, so it's helpful to be open to others.