On the surface, the Dalai Lama may appear as a leader of a celebrity cult. He certainly has the charisma, and his laughter transcends culture. The Dalai Lama is not the head of Tibetan Buddhism. Unlike the Catholic Pope, he has no power in any of the monasteries. The four main schools of Tibetan Buddhist tradition operate independently. Even so, the Dalai Lama has helped reestablish key monasteries in India and has modernized Tibetan Buddhism so it is more relevant in today’s world. He was able to do this through his formidable communications skills to inspire and motivate.
The Dalai Lama is not interested in gaining students, nor is he interested in proselytizing Tibetan Buddhism. In fact, whenever he teaches where the majority of students are not Buddhists, he tells them that it is best if they keep their original religion. What he is interested in is to share what Tibetans have to offer to the world. Tibetan culture is interwoven with Tibetan Buddhism, but one doesn’t need to be a Tibetan Buddhist to develop mental calmness - which leads to love and compassion. Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries Without them, humanity cannot survive. These values are of great importance.
