By Tsering Dhundup
DHARAMSHALA, August 15: In a statement released on August 10, Tibetan spiritual leader His Holiness the Dalai Lama expressed deep concern and empathy for the series of devastating natural disasters that have struck various parts of the world in recent times. The spiritual leader’s words of solace and solidarity come as communities grapple with the profound impacts of floods, wildfires, and hurricanes, leading to loss of life, extensive property damage, and environmental degradation.
The Dalai Lama urged the urgent need to acknowledge the interconnectedness of humanity and the shared responsibility to address the consequences of global heating. He emphasized that these natural disasters are a poignant reminder that the effects of climate change know no boundaries and affect all individuals, regardless of their geographical location.
“As I told a delegation of educationists this morning, whenever such disasters occur in different parts of the world, I try to express my concern and offer support for those suffering and those striving to help them,” the Dalai Lama conveyed. His message resonates with the importance of fostering a sense of global community and compassion, particularly in times of crisis.
Turning his attention to recent events, the Dalai Lama expressed his condolences for the loss of life and extensive damage caused by flooding in northern China and certain Tibetan regions. His Holiness offered prayers for those affected by the calamity, acknowledging the shared desire for happiness and the collective responsibility to alleviate suffering.
“We are all the same as human beings. We all wish to be happy and avoid such tragedies and in the context of humanity’s oneness, we all have a responsibility to help and support each other. On this occasion too, as a mark of my solidarity with the people of China, I hope to be able to make a donation to the relief efforts,” the Dalai Lama affirmed. Furthermore, His Holiness called upon individuals worldwide to come together in prayer and action to aid those affected by these natural disasters.
Following yet another rain related natural disaster in his resident state of Himachal Pradesh in Northern India, the octogenarian Tibetan leader expressed sadness and contributed an unspecified sum as donation towards relief efforts on Tuesday.
