Signet Library, Edinburgh

Time for Reflection

The Chamber

The Presiding Officer (Mr George Reid): Good afternoon. The first item of business, as it is every Wednesday, is time for reflection. Our time for reflection leader today is the Dalai Lama—to whom I say tashi deleg, welcome, fàilte. He will reflect on the words engraved on the parliamentary mace: compassion, wisdom, justice and integrity.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama: (consecutive interpretation) Presiding Officer, honourable members of the Parliament and distinguished guests, it is a great pleasure and honour for me to be able to visit this unique Scottish Parliament. In one way it is a very old Parliament, but at the same time it is a new Parliament.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama continued in English.

I think that there are some similarities between my situation and your concern for the preservation of your identity, your culture and spirituality. I think that I could learn something from your experience.

I appreciate having the opportunity to say a few words to the Parliament and its members—I admire the democratic system. I believe that each individual has the potential to create a better world—a better family. It is a great honour to lead time for reflection in this marvellous new Parliament.

Wisdom, justice and compassion are universal values. You are here because you have been elected by your own people. Those people have put a lot of trust in you and a lot of responsibility on your shoulders. If in fulfilling the expression of their wishes you carry out all your works according to those universal principles, your satisfaction will be deeper and that deep satisfaction will last until your last day. Sometimes, short-sightedly, we consider more immediate benefits, but that does not bring satisfaction in the long run. That much I want to say. Thank you. [Applause.]