..續本文上一頁countries; this is happening to the whole world. Living standards are better and better these days, but the happiness index is lower and lower. For 2010, the statistics for the happiness index in the USA show that compared to a decade ago, unhappiness in Americans has increased twofold. Thus, when people view money or material goods as the symbol of success, a decline of moral values will be inevitable; the more inflamed the desires, the more agitated the mind becomes.

　　As such, I very much like living in the Tibetan area. Although some places are remote and the material conditions are very poor, inwardly people”s hearts are free and very relaxed. As I said at the beginning of the lecture, although the buildings here are so much higher compared to a decade ago, and there have been so many developments and changes, I am not sure if moral values have improved at all. This indirectly implies that some people may be even more miserable than a decade ago.

　　The reason why people are so tormented is mainly due to lacking a moral and religious education. If we possess these two things, while developing material wellbeing, we will also have a sense of satisfaction and contentment. We know when to stop and not go too far; we adapt according to the situation, and do not continuously strive to fulfill desires. If we want to eliminate our present confusion, I personally feel that the ethics and moral values stated in Confucianism, and the faith that can enhance our wisdom, as articulated in Buddhism, are both essential.

　　(15) Question: I am a PhD student in Sociology. Buddhism has a concept called emptiness. However, compared to ancient times, huge changes have taken place in the present era. In such an era, how do we cultivate the view of emptiness properly

　　Answer: No matter which era it is, the Buddhist view of emptiness will not be affected.

　　If you truly want to cultivate the Buddhist view of emptiness, I suggest you learn and study Nagarjuna”s Fundamental Wisdom of the Middle Way, Chandrakirti”s Entering the Middle Way, and Aryadeva”s Four Hundred Verses. After studying these three treatises, you will gain a certain understanding that things and events are all empty. With this understanding or view as your basis, it will be very helpful for facing daily life.

　　I often think that in such a busy life, if people are able to gain some understanding of the Buddhist view of emptiness, then they would not need to endure various adversities or suffering that they are currently facing or with which they are struggling. I therefore very much hope that while you are living your daily life, you also learn some teachings on emptiness, which carry a very powerful blessing.

　　(16) Question: I am a PhD student from the Department of Philosophy at Nanjing University. When I face problems in my life, I often end up by accepting and tolerating people who cause me difficulties. However, often, people don”t understand me, and think I am stupid. This makes me feel very sad. How do I strike a balance so that I can accept and tolerate others, yet still be happy

　　Answer: This situation is quite common nowadays. It includes some people who have studied Confucianism. Due to their politeness, some teachers and students take advantage and bully them. Many people in contemporary society do not show respect for kind and honest people. As such, some inpiduals who carry out wholesome activities and are tolerant with others may not necessarily be well accepted by others. However, even so, we should not give up our kindness and tolerance.

　　Tibetans have a great Buddhist master: Mipham Rinpoche. He said: “Even if the earth is filled with wicked people who commit evil, my noble deeds will not be affected. I should be like a lotus growing out of the mud, pure and clean.” In…

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