I met the Dalai Lama once, the late 90s. I had my preconcieved notions about him which were quite contrary to my thoughts of him now. Shipmates were waiting for me to make a spectacle out of the event. He, a relatively short man dressed in robes, I being 6'-4" and then as many would tell you somewhat intimidating in size and manners. When he came up to me he looked as is if he was about to climb a mountain. I looked down thinking to say something colorful and get a laugh at his expense.
We took one anothers hand and looked at each other. Just then he let loose with the biggest most geniune smile I had ever seen on anyone in my life which in turn brought the same from me. There was a certain strength in him, in his arms, in his grip and a hardness I thought from having seen too much in life. I thought how can I hate this man he is so kind I am glad to have met him.
I don't agree with his beliefs I wish I could have spoke to him in peace and love with what I now know of Mashiach. But I don't hate the guy for it, that word 'hate' today unfortunetly it is all too common place.
Whats so hard or surprising to say you love someone you've never met why is it so difficult for so many? By 'stunning' the audience like he did with those words I wonder how close they must be to being like them who attacked Mumbai.
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