The meeting of two mischievous people is wonderful

Over lunch, the Archbishop and Dalai Lama continue their conversation and express their deep appreciation for one another's friendship.

The conversation transitions to combating intolerance through intentional interfaith dialogues that center on humanity. From their various traditions, the Archbishop and the Dalai Lama discuss the importance of touch, love, mother-child relationships, and an unbiased humanity. As they share a meal of momos, noodles, and vegetables, the two leaders describe their appetites for both nourishment to strengthen the body and to heal humanity.

We need unbiased love toward entire humanity, entire sentient beings, irrespective of what their attitude is toward us. So your enemies are still human brothers and sisters, so they also deserve our love, our respect, our affection. That’s unbiased love.

- The Dalai Lama, Book of Joy, p. 78.

Discussion Questions

What do you notice most about the lunch scene? What does the interchange between the Dalai Lama and the Archbishop tell you about their friendship?

How might you respond to Abrams' question: "Could we really extend that circle of care to many others and not just our own family?"

The Dalai Lama talks about education as a force for change. How might you imagine education shifting to meet the goal he imagines?

Was the notion of unbiased love new to you? How did you respond to this concept?

How would you describe the importance of being fully present?

Activities

Watch a brief video of the Dalai Lama discussing friendship.

Read about the relationship between friendship and gratitude from the Greater Good Science Center.

Reflect and practice an appreciation of friendship with this activity from Missionjoy.org:

“We really become something, something quite special… I think, at the time of my death, I will remember you.” His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Mission: Joy.

STRONG SOCIAL CONNECTION:
- Leads to a 50% increased chance of longevity
- Strengthens your immune system
- Helps you recover from disease faster
- May even lengthen your life

Friendship is SO important. Today – right now – send a friend a text message just to say hello. Or better yet…Connect with a family member or friend on the phone or in person. Tell them you’re grateful for their friendship.

Opening your heart to another will bring joy to BOTH of you. Even when you’re feeling down, you’ll feel so much better if you connect with a friend!