He giggles and speaks such truth to power, regardless how it might offend them.
But maybe that is because he does not.
The two most important issues he raises are the protection of human rights and living in harmony with the universe. Change must come through people. Humans have equal rights from birth that give us a sense of responsibility and involvement. Education is key.
When asked which country India or People's Republic of China will be the most influential, he replies, "The US." The room erupted in laughter and then his holiness went on to say that because India has an open society of democracy. Because of this a meaningful society must have individual freedoms. These things are lacking in The Peoples Republic of China.
When asked, "Do you ever have a bad day?" The Dalai Lama told a story. The story of how when he was a young scholar, his instructor would put a "yellow holy whip to the yellow holy student". Laughter again. He goes on to say that out of fear he studied. If he played too much, his holiness has the fear of the yellow holy whip. Everything is interconnected.
It is ok if a problem is difficult. Analyze it. Work on it. If there is no way to work it out, not to worry.
"So then Tibetans due to our own Karma-nothing can be done." He giggles again.
His holiness says we Americans are too excited-too much complaining.
His advice?
Know right from wrong.
Good from bad.
In a deeper level, keep calm.
We all have the same capacity, same potential as everyone else.
Love compassion and universal responsibility are the source of peace and happiness.
Simplicity in times of such complexity.
Perhaps it is not as complex as we believe.
