Quotes from the Dalai Lama

Just finished reading The Art of Happiness and wanted to share two quotes:

"I think that one way of strengthening that mutual respect is through closer contact between those of different religious faiths-- personal contact. I have made efforts over the past few years to meet and have dialogues with, for example, the Christian community and the Jewish community, and I think that some really positive results have come with this."  I love this. I used to believe that Christianity was the exclusive way to get to God, but I now see this as quite a naive mindset produced from a lack of understanding or interaction with religions other than my own. Thankfully, I began to move past this mindset a few years ago. Unlike the Dalai Lama, I have had limited contact with those of other faiths; however, I have gained an appreciation and respect through reading about other religions while having the privilege of minimal contact with people of other religions. I strongly believe that it would be nearly impossible to see your own faith as exclusive if you have frequent, close relationships with people from other faith traditions. 

"So, it is essential that we develop closer bonds among various religions; through this we can make a common effort for the benefit of humanity. There are so many things that divide humanity, so many problems in the world. Religion should be a remedy to help reduce the conflict and suffering in the world, not another source of conflict."  Religion's number one goal should be to better the lives of all people in the world. Sadly, many adherents fall into the trap of focusing on being right. Actions matter more than beliefs, although healthy beliefs do lead to healthy actions. Although I've seen some people with some pretty wacky theology who are still able to perform loving acts, but typically wacky beliefs produce wacky actions (think Westboro Baptist). Wanting to be right all the time leads to constant frustration. Put down your ego and put your energy into making the world a better place for all.