Dalai Lama Brings Message Of Kindness To California Legislature

SACRAMENTO (CBS13) — The Dalai Lama spoke before California lawmakers on Monday to emphasize the importance of kindness and compassion. In a room full of people known for being on opposite sides of many issues, he urged legislators to put the party second and humanity first.

"We are human beings," he said. "Human love, human compassion, is key factor. Since we are social animals, the best way to take care of one self, should take care of others"

In March, the Dalai Lama was invited to address both houses of the California state legislature. He met Sen. Janet Nguyen during his 80th birthday celebration last summer and since then, the two have continued to discuss promoting kindness in California and human rights in Vietnam.

"Everybody in our community, 100% of Tibetans in our community is proud to receive some blessings from his Holiness," said Tsering Gyurmey, who drove from Berkeley just to catch a glimpse of the Dalai Lama.

"That's why many Tibetans and many Buddhists took the day off today, you know, to come and see him personally," said Kelsang Jungney, president of Tibetan Association of Northern California. "He's the one that symbolizes peace and freedom and also compassion."

In his address, the Dalai Lama talked about gun control and climate change; asking lawmakers to not be complacent and to take the issues seriously.

"We really need this planet," he said. "It is our home."

And while he also stressed the importance of education and non-violence, he reminded lawmakers to remember that compassion starts at home.

"Create peaceful atmosphere within your own family," he said.