Upcoming Events.
Book Circle: Ethics for a Whole World (Beyond Religion), Dalai Lama, Spring 2021.
In Dalai Lama’s book “Beyond Religion”, the concept of “secular ethics” is introduced and promoted. The concept stands for basic human values that all religions subscribe to. In today’s complex and inter-connected world there is a need to go beyond the traditional religions and agree and adopt a set of common ethics.
Application of secular ethics addresses many of the challenges that society faces today. It contains valuable and eternal wisdom and guidance that would make our lives better. If I was to recommend one book for people to read, it would be this one.
Book Circle:
Lasting Happiness in a changing World (The Book of Joy), Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu, Spring 2021.
The focus of the book is on understanding happiness and the joy of life. There is an amazing consensus between these two spiritual statesmen and agreement on perspectives on life and how to achieve joy and happiness. They take turns reinforcing common views and perspectives. They agree that people are fundamentally good and that there are common values shared by different religions. The ability of people to forgive and carry on their lives is exemplified by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission process in South Africa, which has served as an example for other countries to undertake similar processes.
Another key message in the book is that if you are positive and warm-hearted towards other persons, they will reciprocate. A more surprising message is that joy often is realised by passing through difficulties, suffering and adversity. The expression passing through adversity is worth reflecting on. It means that adversity is a temporary phase and that you will overcome it. It is a warm and uplifting book that I hope many persons, in fact everybody, will read.