Portrait of Dalai Lama (14th)

Dalai Lama (14th)

Spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism

Contemporary influential 123 sayings

Sayings by Dalai Lama (14th)

Remember that sometimes not getting what you want is a wonderful stroke of luck.

2007 — Advice on acceptance
Wisdom Unverifiable

The planet does not need more successful people. The planet desperately needs more peacemakers, healers, restorers, storytellers, and lovers of all kinds.

2010 — Speech on global priorities
Inspirational Unverifiable

I am open to guidance from the universe, and I don’t let my limited perception of reality get in the way.

2015 — Interview on spirituality
Wisdom Unverifiable

In the practice of tolerance, one’s enemy is the best teacher.

1993 — Teaching on patience
Educational Unverifiable

When you lose, don’t lose the lesson.

2002 — Advice on failure
Wisdom Unverifiable

If scientific analysis were conclusively to demonstrate certain claims in Buddhism to be false, then we must accept the findings of science and abandon those claims.

2005 — Controversial stance on science vs. tradition
General Unverifiable

China has turned Tibet into a hell on earth.

1993 — Speech criticizing Chinese occupation
Religious Unverifiable

I am a Marxist monk.

1993 — Provocative self-description
General Unverifiable

Sometimes I think I am a little bit lazy.

2010 — Interview with The Times of India
Self-Deprecating Unverifiable

I consider myself a simple Buddhist monk. Nothing more, nothing less.

c. 1980s-present — Various interviews and public statements
Self-Deprecating Unverifiable

I find that the great thing in this world is not so much where we stand, as in what direction we are moving.

c. late 20th century — Attributed, popular quote
Food & Drink Unverifiable

My main interest is to promote human values, compassion, forgiveness, tolerance, self-discipline, contentment. That's my main interest.

c. 1990s — Interview
General Unverifiable

I think the very purpose of our life is to seek happiness.

1998 — Book: 'The Art of Happiness'
Life & Aging Unverifiable

Old friends pass away, new friends appear. It is just like the days. An old day passes, a new day arrives. The important thing is to make it meaningful: a meaningful friend — or a meaningful day.

1999 — Book: 'Ethics for the New Millennium'
Life & Aging Unverifiable

I always say that I am a student of Shantideva. That's my main guru.

c. 2000s — Public teaching
Self-Deprecating Unverifiable

The planet is our only home, and we must protect it.

c. 2000s — Environmental advocacy statement
General Unverifiable

Happiness is not something ready-made. It comes from your own actions.

1998 — Book: 'The Art of Happiness'
General Unverifiable

When you practice gratefulness, there is a sense of respect toward others.

1998 — Book: 'The Art of Happiness'
General Unverifiable

I have no special talent. I am only passionately curious.

c. 2000s — Attributed, though often linked to Einstein, the Dalai Lama has used it or a similar sentiment
Self-Deprecating Unverifiable

The purpose of our lives is to be happy.

1998 — Book: 'The Art of Happiness'
General Unverifiable
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