Read Waylon’s initial take on the situation here. And new info, here.

Note: no one person is the voice of Elephant. Agree with the below? Disagree with the below? Inspired to share your contemplations, experiences, take—what can be helpful, critical or otherwise? Post here.

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What can I say that will help alleviate the confusion and negativity surrounding the Dalai Lama’s debacle?

I don’t know what was going through the Dalai Lama’s mind when he asked a young boy to “suck his tongue.” A lapse of judgment? A senior moment, maybe?

(Author update: I regret trying to make sense of the Dalai Lama’s words without much information, as it was no lapse in judgment or mistake on his part. New information has come to light about the misspoken words and cultural context behind “suck my tongue.” Please, please read Waylon’s article.)

What I feel certain about is his purity and intention. If you watched the video, you can see by the way he held the boy in his arms, and put his forehead against his, that His Holiness was transferring his utmost level of care and blessings to the boy. As someone who has received blessings from high lamas like Trulshik Rinpoche, Dilgo Khyentse, and others, I understand what was happening. I know what it feels like to be held in a pure, loving being’s embrace. I know what it means to have your forehead rest against theirs and feel the power being transferred.

Now, I have never been put in the same awkward situation as the young boy, but if such a request were made, I’d pull their tongue and that would be the end of it!

The Dalai Lama doesn’t need my defense. But damn, I feel compelled to say something. Especially after seeing this unfortunate circumstance unfold in dense negativity, accusation, and blame. People are hurt and jaded in America. And rightfully so, but we must refrain from making snap judgements and jump to bizarre conclusions.

The Dalai Lama is not perving out on young boys behind closed doors. He’s sitting in Dhyana and preparing for his life after death every second he gets. Okay?!

His Holiness The Dalai Lama is one of the purest, most loving, and compassionate living beings on this planet right now. Let’s not allow a silly and unfortunate circumstance to undermine the enormous contribution he’s made to the world. Instead of pointing fingers, and placing blame, lets honestly look within. What genuine and lasting contributions have you made to society?

My wish is that these words, however insignificant they may be, bring some light into peoples confused and deluded minds.

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More:

As a Buddhist, here’s my take on the Dalai Lama situation.

The Tibetan meaning of “Eat my Tongue.” {Dalai Lama}

My Fantasy of the Dalai Lama was Shattered—& I am Sad Today.