His Holiness the Dalai Lama Attends Golden Jubilee Celebration of Lamdon Model Senior Secondary School.

This morning His Holiness the Dalai Lama was invited to the Lamdon Model Senior Secondary School to inaugurate celebrations of its Golden Jubilee and its hosting of the Great Summer Debate. Since the school is located in the upper part of Leh, His Holiness had to drive right up through the city. Tibetans, Ladakhis and some foreign tourists lined the route, silk scarves and flowers in their hands and smiles of joy on their faces.

His Holiness was received by a welcoming committee and escorted to the stage, covered by an awning, erected above the school ground. He first paid his respects before a statue of the Buddha and lit a lamp to auspiciously open the occasion. Next, he unveiled a plaque to indicate the inauguration of the 14th Dalai Lama Open Stadium and launched several books and the Golden Jubilee program. Greeting several old friends on the way, His Holiness walked to the front of the stage to wave to the 15,000 strong crowd.

His Holiness spoke about scientists who are taking an increasing interest in the workings of the mind and emotions. They come to see him not to pray but to learn how to achieve peace of mind.

He remarked that throughout the Himalayan Region there is growing appreciation of the Nalanda Tradition that is rooted in the practice of ethics, concentration and insight. These trainings enable a transformation within based on reason.

His Holiness revealed that he reflects on the awakening mind of bodhichitta and the wisdom understanding emptiness the moment he wakes every morning. And it brings him peace of mind.

His Holiness waved to the crowd before climbing into his car and setting off down through Leh, where, once again, well-wishers lined the road, and returned to his residence at Shewatsel Phodrang.