My Semester Abroad

Local college students — from the Puget Sound area or studying at a Puget Sound university — are traveling the world as part of their studies; several are sending dispatches about discovering their corner of the globe. They welcome your comments and questions.

Editor's note: Thanks to all the students who shared their experiences on traveling and learning. "Semester Abroad" is being discontinued.

All blogs and discussions:

May 01, 2006

Buenos Aires: The Dalai Lama, rock star

Posted by Riana Hensel at 01:31 PM

In spite of much surprising criticism about paying to see the Dalai Lama on Sunday I went on a little religious pilgrimage. The talk I attended was titled "Inner Peace and Universal Peace" — it was the topic that interested me most, and I feel like I could gain the most from.

The Dalai Lama entered to a standing ovation, which was very moving. It seems to me that these days the only people who get standing ovations for just entering a room are rock stars; it was a refreshing change. He spoke of war, and education reform, and said that he thinks that one of the main causes of societal problems is a lack of love in families.

He was such a calm and peaceful presence — such a joy to share two and a half hours with. He had the most infectious little giggle I have ever heard. My two favorite quotes: "Human intelligence can be constructive or destructive; it depends on the motives of the heart."

Followed later by: "I do my best."

Jennifer Henrichsen
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