His Holiness the Dalai Lama, conveyed a powerful message of compassion, unity, and the significance of a meaningful life during the Long-Life Empowerment ceremony held in Khaltse, Ladakh on Saturday, 19th August 2023. The event was attended by a vast congregation of over 25,000 devotees.
Beginning his address with a heartwarming anecdote, His Holiness the Dalai Lama shared his interaction with a 106-year-old woman and voiced his aspirations to live beyond 110 years. The leader’s words were met with fervent applause from the audience, signifying the deep reverence and affection they held for him.
His Holiness emphasized the importance of living not just a long life, but one dedicated to the service of others. “By cultivating the awakening mind of bodhicitta, you earn merit. And by understanding emptiness, you accumulate wisdom,” he said, encouraging attendees to continually seek knowledge, understanding, and practice.
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His Holiness’ poignant reflections highlighted the need for compassion and understanding in today’s world, stating that conflicts arise primarily from self-centered attitudes. By considering all beings as similar in their quest for happiness and aversion to suffering, peace can be achieved both individually and collectively.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama reminded the audience of Buddha’s journey to enlightenment, emphasizing that the path requires persistence, merit, and wisdom. The primary focus of the day’s gathering was the imparting of the long-life empowerment related to White Tara. His Holiness underscored the significance of being warm-hearted as the foundation for a meaningful existence.
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Towards the conclusion of his speech, His Holiness touched upon societal divisions, urging the attendees to look beyond caste distinctions, stressing that all humans share the same Buddha nature with an inherent ability to achieve Buddhahood.
Post the ceremony, His Holiness took his leave, expressing gratitude for the attendees’ unwavering faith and dedication. He then made his way back to Leh, concluding his visit to Khaltse.
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