Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Ophelia, Mt. View — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 17:54:50 GMT

What....the ....HELL? China's leaders are idiots. Plain idiots. I know they are communists who gave them the right now to determine and put a law on a religion that is NOT THEIR OWN? They are atheists, they have no belief in God or anything spiritual or outworldly. They crush that because it's against their control (as shown with the government appointed clergy and goven't own churches). Wow China, congrates on making yourself look controlling like an abusive husband. Get out of here with your melting pot of a society.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Anne Patterson, Tulsa, Oklahoma — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 18:26:06 GMT

I feel ashamed of the "rulers of the free world" who have embraced China and ignored the plight of the freedom and autonomy of Tibet. Since one of our Presidents made China "Most favored nation" all of this has been inevitable. We have preferred a country run by communists who have no understanding of religion over a country who had a full understanding of religion in their lives and who harmed no one. This I hope will be seen in history as an horendous error, and we should be ashamed to have stood by and done nothing.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Sean Havlin, Regina SK. — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 19:01:40 GMT

The international community should not meekly accept the chinese communist party's assertion that through it's political control of Tibet it has the right to usurp control of one of the world's major religions! The CCP views adherents of any faith as dangerous subversives and treats them accordingly. Just look at the treatment of Falun Gong practitioners in China,Detention without trial,torture,imprisonment and even death! All for believing and promulgating the dangerous,destabilizing notion that TRUTH, KINDNESS,and TOLERANCE are virtues and not acts of terrorism! China is fast becoming the most powerful nation in the world and it does not take too much imagination to realize what the world of tomorrow will be like if the Chinese government is left unchallenged on it's path to ascendancy.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Mike, San Francisco, California — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 19:06:28 GMT

A crucial dilemma facing us! Tibet should be free! I do not understand China. The tenor of "change" should spread out around the world. Something needs to change in China. Last I checked China is not the center of the world. There is no center of the world now. The Chinese government will need more than prayers to encourage it to wake up and smell the coffee of the modern time. There is no basis for the Chinese Government to have any say in what the Dali Lama and his world organization does. Chinese government has denounced all religious organizations! Chinese government has also rejected and destroyed Chinese culture, tradition, and history. They ought to leave Tibet and the Dali Lama alone allowing Tibet to be returned to those that love it best!

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Luke — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 19:10:40 GMT

Wow, Chiness politics are weird. Oh well. I wonder who this dude is going to pick.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Bill — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 19:44:15 GMT

I was from Beijing, and I plan to set up an exile-government and fight for Beijing independence. If I succeed, the people from Shanhai may think they can succeed as well, then establish another exile government and fight for Shanghai independence. and so on so forth.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

James — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 20:04:11 GMT

An atheist ruler choosing the next religious reincarnation of something is just so sick and wrong. Where's the actual RELIGION in that?

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

David, Newark, NJ — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 20:39:50 GMT

What is amazing to me is that nobody is stating the obvious here. It is all fantasy. There is no reincarnation and the sooner everyone figures this out, the better we will all be.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Jessica — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 20:54:26 GMT

It's never been a fight about Tibet's independence, it's about those so-called spiritual leaders' privileges in Tibet. They want those privileges back. They want to go back to the days when they did nothing but had everything. They don't really care about the majority of the tibetians interests. Just do an easy comparison between what Tibetian's life looked like under the old government and their life under the new, you will know who is lying.. I am a religious person, but I am not a fan of Dalai.. Talking about religion, tibetians or buddhisms overall, are not drawing any special attentions in China. There are several big temples in Beijing that attracts many worshippers everyday, not a sign of their activities being suppressed under the government. Those who are giving comments on this, better to be there yourself before making a decision on what to say.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

GC USA — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 21:03:18 GMT

The Tibetan culture and religion is beautiful, and it is a shame that its on the verge of distinction. Their ceremonious choosing of religious successors through reincarnation is fascinating, and should be preserved.
Unfortunately, the USA is so far in bed with China, that we turn a blind eye. Now that China holds our purse strings, we say nothing to their inhumane persecution of the Tibetans.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Tim — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 21:03:47 GMT

yeah, why aren't we spreading freedom in this part of the world George W? Oh yeah, there is no oil there and China ownes about a trillion of our debt. Bummer.

(I'm glad your mismanagement of our once-credible nation is soon history... which has some new dark pages added to it)

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Jeff, Colorado Springs — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 21:06:15 GMT

Free Tibet!!!!!!

People are afraid of what they do not understand.

Free Tibet!!!!!!

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Have a big bite of a reliality sandwich sometime! — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 21:08:37 GMT

Most religions are control-mechanisms. The sooner we start seeing religion for what it should be (a personal and spiritual experience) the better off the human race will be. Congragating is the worst idea in history and I'm frankly surprised prophets like Jesus didn't figure that out. Looks like he wasn't quite perfect either, was he?

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

padma — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 21:12:00 GMT

Others can not control the reincarnation of a soul particularly from a powerful and enlightened master as the Dalai Lama. The chinese think they can control everything, but there are some things they can not! I wish the Tibetens would flee, because I hate to see people suffer and be tortured. Let the Dalai Lama rebirth in a free country so that The Tibeten ways can be preserved. Either way the chinese can not control the birth or death of an enlightened master.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Ryan Smith, Clark, MO — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 21:13:17 GMT

First, I must say that my first impression of the Dalai Lama's attempts to select his successor sounded like the politicization of religion. As necessary as it may be for him to be involved in the continuation of the non-violent path to independence, I (being less than well versed in th Buddhist religion have difficulty understanding how an active soul can determine the form it will take in the next life before the end of its current life. That being said, China's human rights record and subsequent status in the world speaks loudly that "money talks". I would like to give world governments credit for the thought that people exposed to freedom will gradually demand it for themselves as the society prepares for it. Patience can bring about change as easily as violent intervention. China seems to be changing slowly, but is their position in the world causing more change or an increased stubbornness in Tibet and Taiwan. I am beginning to ramble, as I do when I delve ever deeper into a complex argument. So, I guess the question is not about whether it is right for China to intervene in this way, but what is the best way to deal with it? I certainly don't know.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Sarah, Las Vegas, NV — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 21:14:08 GMT

The United States and the rest of the free world had an opportunity to prevent this when the Dalai Lama asked for help shortly after his exile. As a predominently christian society, the US determined it was not a worthwhile cause. Shame on us for not supporting the Dalai Lama back then. In the end, the Dalai Lama will win and overcome this. History has proven that "power" will prevail over "force". Just look what Ghandi and Bishop Tutu accomplished despite insurmountable odds.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Cfoote,Schenectady,NY — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 21:19:08 GMT

Right on Dave from Newark. Its all a game of power. Wake up China! There is no reincarnation. Wake up Tibet! The use of a so called religous right to keep you oppressed is not religion at all. The Chinese kept Tibet at bay on the Olympics and so it goes on. Choosing a succesor is something a political power would do. Choosing someone as a succesor that is close to a diety God does

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Ty Scheidegger, Chicago, IL — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 21:29:15 GMT

No matter which side of the debate you are on, you must admit that China is trying to rule over a people's thought process and religion. Financial and political rule is one thing, but the torture of a culture, religion, education and eventual extermination of a people is called genocide. Tibet has nothing that the United States wants (oil) so we'll do nothing, but rest assured that history will not look kindly on the U.S., China or any of the world's industrialized nations for this slaughter. The Dalai Lama has taught the world many lessons... obviously we still have much to learn.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Tonie,newton,NH — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 21:32:12 GMT

It all comes down to money.Tibet is wealthy in natural resources and labor. Get the idea.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

read_this — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 21:32:30 GMT

http://www.michaelparenti.org/Tibet.html

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Steve, San Jose, CA — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 21:37:40 GMT

Let's be clear, people. The choice being offered by the Dalai Lama is not one between a free and democratic Tibet vs an autocratically controlled Tibet. It is the choice between an autocratic theocracy and an autocratic one party system. Are we in the West so paranoid of China that we would buy into some archaic, unreasonable and just plain crazy theocratic system of succession because "at least they're not the communist party"? WAKE UP. The only free Tibet is a democratic Tibet.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Mike, Los Angeles, Ca — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 21:38:07 GMT

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Sue, Oakland, Ca — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 21:38:56 GMT

What do you mean when you say there is no religious freedom in Tibet? People live in Tibet now have much better life than those when Dalai Lama left 45 years ago.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

dave, seattle — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 21:56:31 GMT

This is all so very sad. History will judge China as aggressors and fools, but the tenents of peace and Buddhism will not disappear.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

jonny — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 21:56:32 GMT

Religions should be free of polictics. There are more than 300 milion Budhism all over. I have never seen Budhists fighting, they are very peaceful people. let them survive peacefully. China is a communist country and has no right to choose religious leader (next dalai lama). Tibet should be free country.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Linda, Pittsburgh, Pa. — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 21:59:57 GMT

Hey Jessica, this is the USA, not China. We all have the right to an opinion. Mine is, China is a Godless state that serves only itself. China does not have the right to even be in Tibet, let alone decide who the next spiritual leader of Tibet will be.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Roger, Honolulu, Hawaii — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 22:01:08 GMT

David from Newark - Feel free to disbelieve in reincarnation. That won't make it less real or relevant to those millions of perfectly intelligent Buddhists and Hindus who believe in it as thoroughly as you reject it. And remember that just as little real evidence that your religion is based on fact, as there is for other religions.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Jamey, New orleans, LA — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 22:05:32 GMT

"It's never been a fight about Tibet's independence, it's about those so-called spiritual leaders' privileges in Tibet. They want those privileges back. They want to go back to the days when they did nothing but had everything. They don't really care about the majority of the tibetians interests. Just do an easy comparison between what Tibetian's life looked like under the old government and their life under the new, you will know who is lying.. I am a religious person, but I am not a fan of Dalai.. Talking about religion, tibetians or buddhisms overall, are not drawing any special attentions in China. There are several big temples in Beijing that attracts many worshippers everyday, not a sign of their activities being suppressed under the government. Those who are giving comments on this, better to be there yourself before making a decision on what to say." XXX WHOEVER WROTE THE ABOVE POST KNOS ABSOLUTELY NOTHING ABOUT BUDDHISM, TIBET OR THE CHINESE. READ BEFORE YOU WRITE. XXX

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

John Vacek — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 22:06:12 GMT

Tibet...or not Tibet...that is the question.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

LZ, Pennsylvania — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 22:06:27 GMT

The lama has been and continue to use religion as a pretext to play ethnic separatist politics and use ignorant and anti-chinese foreginer lackeys and ordinary tibetans as his political pawns. This so called meeting is yet another one of his clever public relation stunts. It is too bad that it is used to farther his political agenda which is contrary to the fundamental interests of the Chinese people, whatever ethnicities they may be, Tibetans or the Hans. His political agenda, I believe, must be fought against at all cost b/c I guarantee you the day he gets his way is the day when an American or Nato military base setting up shop on the Himalayas. And there are already over 100 U.S military bases all over the place. Now, what I don't understand is why the Chinese govn't is still so nice to him and bend over backward to neogitate with him? Americans don't even neogitate w/ the Iranians, why should the Chinese gov't neogitate w/ a political scoundrel like him, especially when he repeated prove he's untrustworthy and nothing but a great media manipulator? I say he needs to be criminally charged for inciting and formenting ethnic division and social chaos. As the god-king, he can easily stop and prevent ethnic violence, but he chooses to say one thing and act another way. Regardless of what his western lackeys say in the western media, including in this article, Chinese sovereignty is non-negotiable, and must be protected at all cost even it is with the blood of 1.3 billions people.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Homer, Springfield, IL — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 22:07:21 GMT

Of course "Talking about religion, tibetians or buddhisms overall, are not drawing any special attentions in China." Why would it? The government controls and suppresses such speech. Additionally, Tibet isn't favored inside the country except as a means to greater control.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Jonathan - Ohio — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 22:08:11 GMT

Jessica - not sure what you are referring to. To say that the monks don't care about the Tibetian peoples interests has no historical truth what so ever. If that were true, their wouldn't be a Tibetian govt in exile, they would all move to Paris and live out their days in luxury. If you had been to Dharasala, you would know that it is far from luxurious.

Also - making a comparison between the life of an average Tibetian pre-1949 and post-1959 - yes the Chinese brought industrialization, but at what cost. Most of their culture is gone and all around the temples there are Chinese owned shops and restaurants - what if the US was in the same position, I don't think you would enjoy the same things you do now...that is if you are not posting this from China.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Marianne Morgan, Atlanta, GA — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 22:10:30 GMT

Can someone explain to me how your soul can be reincarnated while you're still alive? I mean, if that is possible, whose soul would be in the original body?

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Nakamoto — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 22:24:56 GMT

sorry to have to remind all of you that "reincarnation", if it's the truth of all human being's end, will have to happen only if after someone's dead. As ridiculous as Tibetans think that a government could choose a religious leader for them, it's just as ridiculous, if not more, for Dalai Lama and everyone else to determine whether he should be reincarnated while Dalai Lama's still alive. WTH? You must be DEAD first then reincarnate. This whole thing is just bogus. I'm very offended that Dalai Lama thinks he could just reincarnate while being alive... "just because..." . I'm not his fan, neither am I a Chinese government's fan, I'm speaking from the perspective of a buddhist.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Steve, Kennewick, WA — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 22:27:01 GMT

Jessica, I think that you need to study the the history and culture of the tibetan people before you speak. I many many tibetans that I call dear friends that try very very hard to survive under the repressive regime of the chinese. The chinese are systematically trying to de-tibetan the culture, and make them more chinese. They are moving great numbers of chinese nationals into tibet to change things towards Bejings wishes. My friends tell me quite often of how they wish they could go back to the way their culture was before the chinese invaders
arrived.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Steve, Santa Fe, NM — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 22:37:30 GMT

Jessica, so did you ask the Tibetans what they want? We've all heard the line of thinking you state before. I know several Tibetan lamas and none of them exhibit any behavior or make any statements that support the claim they are in it for the "privileges". Most of us also realize that torture and execution of buddhist monks and nuns along with the massacre of at a minimum thousands if not millions of Tibetans does not represent any form of good intent by the Chinese.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Marisa S. Phoenix, AZ — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 22:38:46 GMT

wow david from Newark, how do you know there is no reincarnation? So what exactly doeshappen when you die? Have you actually dies before & know for a fact? I think what is true for you is true for you & maybe not others. And vice-versa. I think if anyone of us knew the truth about the after life we would not be living on earth to begin with. Until then, it is all just a belief.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

leah — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 22:39:47 GMT

First, the growing power, arsenal, and territorial expansionist desires (Taiwan, Tibet) of the atheist Chinese government is frightening.

Second, a Buddhist should appreciate the irony here..."attachments cause suffering"...attachment to the past, property, country, religion, etc.,etc...

"everything changes"...The Tibetans may never have their home again as they knew it (The Chinese will never let that happen!) However, by accepting "what is" they can choose to live in the present and enjoy the hospitality of their "host" countries...creating new lives, experiencing new cultures, and still enjoying their religion and traditions.

Third, the World should continue to put pressure on the Chinese government for any abuses they incur on the Tibetans still residing in Tibet.

Fourth, let's all pray that the Dalai Lama stays healthy and can encourage his flock to "embrace change" and maintain one of the central tenets of Buddhism..."non-violence".

Fifth, if the Tibetans follow the scriptures taught by the Buddha...there will be no need to "fight" over the next Dalai Lama.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

nobody — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 22:59:38 GMT

Does any one here know that the current DL WAS approved by then Chinese government when he was reincarnated? Go check the history.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Simon, Brooklyn, NY — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 23:03:36 GMT

"China proceeded to choose its own 11th Panchen, and the boy the Dalai Lama selected was never heard from again." - was there any international investigation, public outcry, or excuse offered by the Chinese govt. regarding the disappearance of the boy chosen by the Dalai Lama?

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Janie — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 23:10:19 GMT

Oh, Jessica, you so clearly bear the marks of years and years of Chinese Nationilst Propaganda. Go do some actual *historical* research; y'know, the kind that comes in textbooks NOT written by the CCP.

Better get out in the world of free intellect before making a decision on what to say.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Jive — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 23:16:35 GMT

Jessica I agree that the life of the tibetian was poor in the early 1950's. Most lives were poor in the east in the 1950's. To be honest though, your a fool if you think that China wants anything other than control. I've been all over China. I've seen how "communist" the country is. Mostly, it's just like the U.S. Everything is about buy, buy, buy, sell, sell, sell. The point is, if a people want indepentence, give it to them.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

pat, indy — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 23:16:59 GMT

So I jump ship in Hong Kong and make my way over to Tibet, and I get on as a looper at a course over in the Himalayas. A looper, you know, a caddy, a looper, a jock. So, I tell them I'm a pro jock, and who do you think they give me? The Dalai Lama, himself. Twelfth son of the Lama. The flowing robes, the grace, bald... striking. So, I'm on the first tee with him. I give him the driver. He hauls off and whacks one - big hitter, the Lama - long, into a ten-thousand foot crevasse, right at the base of this glacier. Do you know what the Lama says? Gunga galunga... gunga, gunga-galunga. So we finish the eighteenth and he's gonna stiff me. And I say, "Hey, Lama, hey, how about a little something, you know, for the effort, you know." And he says, "Oh, uh, there won't be any money, but when you die, on your deathbed, you will receive total consciousness." So I got that goin' for me, which is nice.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Melanie Sullivan — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 23:19:14 GMT

People should be asking themselves WHY China wants the Tibetan plateau and WHY the Chinese are so frightened of HHDL. Could it be the Tibetan Plateau holds the world's richest URANIUM deposits in the world. Also, the Tibetan Plateau, the highest plane on the plant, effects much of the planet's weather systems. And it is the head of the 5 rivers systems in Asia... and the Chinese are dumping Nuclear waste up there... Global warming to say the least. Please SAY something to your elected officials!!! www.savetibet.org

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Faye, Seattle, WA — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 23:33:59 GMT

To David of Newark, NJ: To say that there is, "no reincarnation and the sooner everyone figures this out, the better we will all be" is the equivalent of saying, "there is no god and the sooner everyone figures this out, the better we will all be." Slamming another's religion is not a way to get a point across. If you do manage to take religion out of the picture, just 'how much' better will we all be?

To Jessica: Regardless of what the old Tibetan life was like under the old rule and who is lying, the current situation is something that you can't ignore. China is brilliant in its aim to attempt to erradicate those who oppose. You say that we should look at the current situation in Tibet. Alright, what would you like us to look at? The current living situation of the average Tibetan? You seem to say that the people of Tibet seem to lead a better life nowadays in comparrission to the old days. I suggest you to take a closer look at WHO really is living well in Tibet. Its not the native Tibetans, those who have lived in Tibet for generations, but the Han-Chinese who were spurred to move to Tibet by the Chinese government in an effort to sinicize Tibet. The Han-Chinese who have moved there and settled down and whose desendants consider themselves 'native Tibetans'... are those the Tibetans you are referring to in your statement?

Culture is a beautiful thing, but with the Cultural Revolution, much of what it means to be a decent Chinese was also wiped out. To be re-educated into a being that is so desensitive and whose only yearn is to consume, profit, catch-up and make it big. Don't believe me. Take a piece of paper and list out in decending order of importance, what matters to you the most. When your done, take a good, hard look at thats paper. What are your priorities?

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

lynn — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 23:38:59 GMT

China should be taken care their own peoples and their own problem, leave the Tibet peoples alone, let them make their own decision on their relegions.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Chad, Seattle WA — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 23:45:35 GMT

No reincarnation, LOL. The reason no one is making that point David, is that it's not what the discussion is about. The topic of this particular story has to do with a secular government mandating specific resolutions to religious issues for political expediency and control, so please suspend your disbelief for a moment so the rest of us can stay focused. I think it's funny that the buddha was born in India and yet you don't see them saying they have the authority to name a buddhist figurehead. The same goes for Indonesia, Thailand, Burma, Sri-Lanka and Nepal, all whom have been major centers of buddhist expansion and culture over the course of our history.....

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

John — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 23:47:35 GMT

I'll bet if the Italians tried to name the Pope there would be hell to pay. But when it comes to the Tibetans the world takes the position - who cares.
China can do anything it wants and nobody has the courage to fault them. It's a sad world we live in.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

David Henault Providence R.I. — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 00:19:06 GMT

Tibetan Buddhism is not a religion but a philosophy .
The practice of meditation that is employed by these practitioners is not exclusive to buddhism . The term migration of souls is not accurate as stated as the term soul is not a tenet or precept of this philosophy . By gaining control of random thoughts and finding a level of inner peace one is often able to access intuitive knowledge . Intuitive knowledge is not limited to buddhist practitioners but available to all . The Dalai Lama's threat to the Chinese is due to his unifying nature , his relationship with Pope John Paul demonstrates the wisdom and philosophy he shares transcends religious and cultural barriers . His works speak of the ability of all regardless of faith to attain inner peace . The atrocities that the Chinese government and military have committed against Tibetans is well documented . Nuns and monks were forced to engage in sexual acts or be killed , they were also forced to urinate on religious texts . Recently the riots that preceded the Olympics resulted in the imprisonment of 1000's and the death of 100's . The Chinese have reduced the role of temples to be tourist attractions . To have a photo or a tattoo of the Dalai Lama or that speaks of one's desire for Tibet's freedom is punishable by imprisonment and the accompaning torture . The Chinese have encouraged ethnic chinese from nearby provinces to relocate to Tibet . Their inclusion into Tibetan society has changed the face of Tibet . Why would it be a suprise for anyone that Bejiing would do all in it's power to undermine a culture that has lived a peaceful often nomadic and ascetic lifestyle . The US and China are now suffering from years of overconsumption on every level . Our governments' relationship is based on mutual needs , the US hasn't acknowledged the Armenian massacre due to our need and desire to maintain military bases in Turkey . The relationship with China is based on economics and I doubt you will ever see our government take a stance that will jeopardize this mutually parisitic ( symbiotic seems disingenuous ) relationship .

Buddhism is described as new age by some , it predates Christianity by some 500 years . There are many sects and sub cultures within the philosophy and they find commonality despite small differences in modality . We can all learn from these teachings and philosophies .....

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

The Watcher, The Moon — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 00:25:36 GMT

To Jessica above me... what privileges would that be? Like actually living in Tibet? Or how about living at all.

You do know that China has implemented a policy of forcefully moving non-Tibetans to Tibet such that the Tibetans are now the minority in their own territory.

Now let people mingle and you slowly destroy the culture and/or breed the Tibetan people out of existence.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Jon, Everett, WA — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 00:25:49 GMT

China has developed a lot of power just in the last decade and will continue to grow. Their involvement with this issue makes sense, once they can control relgious leaders they will move on to the rest of Asia. Their arrogance will bring then back down.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Kirk, Aurora, CO — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 00:35:35 GMT

What a serious shame that these people actually believe that there is such a "thing" as reincarnation. Let em have at it, games never hurt many.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Wong — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 00:55:05 GMT

To people whose only knowledge about Tibet is Dalai lama, the title Dalai Lama itself was given to Tibet buddist leader of the yellow hat sect by the emperor of the Qing dynasty. His status as the secular leader was given by the emperor; before that, he was merely a religous figure. It was made clear from day one all reincarnation had to be approved by the central Chinese government, be it the Qing emperors, the Nationalist's Republic of China government or the current Chinese goverment. I am horrified at people's lack of historical facts.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Teddy, Folsom, CA — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 01:18:55 GMT

International politics has become a game of sticking your nose into someone else's business, a game in which the United States often takes the lead. If we truly believe in Human Rights, then tell Beijing to take a hike and leave Tibet to the Tibetans. Chinese approval of the next Dalai Lama will make that person a Politician, not a Spritual Leader. Can you imagine the Italian government requiring approval of the next Pope?

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Scott, Falmouth MA — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 01:25:40 GMT

Whoa, consider this little quote from the article: "the Dalai Lama proposed to hold a referendum among his millions of followers on whether he should be reincarnated at all, and, if the vote was in favor, to determine his reincarnation while he was still alive." Ok, the Chinese policy on Tibet is a classic case of colonialism run amok, but wow, a referendum on whether to reincarnate or not is seriously trippy. Vivre le Tibet!

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Debra Harris, Lake Oswego, OR 97035 — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 01:36:47 GMT

China should shut up and mind its own business. They do have an overpopulation problem that they deal with by punishing couples who have more than one child. They have too much control in the world and without religion, sure don't have any business messing with the Tibetins, who are peaceful and minding their own business basically.

The current Dahli Llama was "selected" as a child of about 3, by certain actions he demonstrated that are designated only by the future Dahli Llama. He was then raised accordingly. I believe there are seven signs he showed and they have been used for the selection of the Dahli Llama since one has existed. It would be interesting to know if these are being watched for in male Tibetian children now; I don't know why they wouldn't be.

Two hospitalizations since August for a 73 year old man: What were they for? People in high offices and the wealthy are hospitalized for minor things that the average person is not. The president and First Lady stay overnight for an annual physical. I have mine in the doctor's office make an appt. to go to an imagining office for l5 mins. to have a mammogram. It doesn't make the news (thankfully) but I am not the leader of a religious group or President whose health can affect his running the country. And, the First Lady needs her privacy.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

higleygirl, vancouver, wa — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 01:54:50 GMT

So, Ok i admit that I don't get it. Apparently it's all just made up as they go. Otherwise, it wouldn't sound so stupid.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Quinsy — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 02:03:07 GMT

atheists or spiritual leaders
why even bother
i mean, calm down and be a little practical
i regret typing up these lines wrt somewhere i might never visit in this whole life instead of working out a plan to save my daily expanse from now on

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

dupe, china, shanghai — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 02:37:23 GMT

thts a good thing tht chinese politician passed a bill on tht...well how com then the lama gets reborned while he is alive...:/><

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Flash, NY — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 04:09:55 GMT

Hey Ophelia,

The reason why China feels the need to get involved here is because the Dalai Lama is not acting as a religious leader for the Tibetan religion, he is acting as a political one pushing for complete independence. No major country would tolerate this.

The Dalai Lama has to face reality. 6 million tibetans, the 9th largest minority in China, are not going to get independence.

Why do we keep beating up on China anyway? The country next door (India) is an historical fiction, with borders largely mapped out by the British Raj. If Tibet is so important, why is there no-one saying "Free Kashmir" or "Free Nagaland"? Both regions have active independence movements.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Doesn't matter — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 04:46:06 GMT

Food for thought...If a Tibetian is overheard speaking the Dali Lama's name they go to jail !

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Jen, WA — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 04:51:09 GMT

"What is amazing to me is that nobody is stating the obvious here. It is all fantasy. There is no reincarnation and the sooner everyone figures this out, the better we will all be. "

That's an awfully offensive statement. I suppose one could say the same thing about the Resurrection of Christ, the exsistence of the Holy Spirit, or that of any other higher being that a religion holds dear. What is obvious is that this is a strong belief for many people. Strong enough for them to give their lives for. So rather than make the implication that your beliefs and opinions are right and better than everyone else's, try to practice some understanding. Or at least some tact.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Joe Ball, Tustin, California — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 07:09:36 GMT

this is confusing. I have met some of the higher-ups in the Tibetan hierarchy, and they are the most practical,down to earth people I know. The fact that their "religion" is really a way of life, a philosophy, not a dogma is why they are threatening to those who need power to sustain their own dogmatic control. I don't know anything to do but honor the principles and cultivate compassion and an awareness of love to keep that flame alive in our own lives.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Mary, Santa Clarita, CA — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 09:19:09 GMT

Although it is true that many of us, who are quick to write our opinions about Tibet vs. China, have never lived in either area, it is obvious that something is definitely wrong with this whole situation. First of all, doesn’t it sound a little odd that an atheist ruler wants to be able to appoint the next Dalai Lama? This is just a simple play of power, not a means of “protecting Tibet’s culture.” Secondly, it’s not just the Dalai Lama and a few followers who are upset with China’s hold on Tibet. There are multitudes of individuals who speak of China’s oppression and abuse of Tibet. Surely, no one can expect us to believe that ALL of these people are lying to make China “look bad,” especially if Tibet is so much more “improved” now than before Chinese rule. Thirdly, if China is so open-minded about these Buddhist people, and moreover, have permitted several temples to exist in Beijing, why are they trying to maintain such a tight grip on Tibet’s religious freedom? What if Beijing is controlling those temples, in essence, keeping their enemies close (just in case)? At the end, China’s publicized plan for Tibet to “maintain the culture” and its actions of violence just don’t coincide or make any sense. Maybe it’s time to apply more effort in unraveling China’s hidden agenda.

Also, one person’s fantasy is another’s reality. That doesn’t make either person right or wrong, just different! You never know when you’ll be defending your fantastic beliefs from someone who doesn’t believe in what you hold to be true.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

sun woman haiku, hi — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 09:33:30 GMT

how can we help free Tibet. i heard dali lama speak in hawaii and i believe in freedom for tibet as china is very unkind ti the tibetan people.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Heather, Detroit, MI — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 10:45:42 GMT

David from Newark is absolutely correct. Everyone - from the article's author, the people mentioned in the article to the people who have commented on this story so far - are overlooking the obvious: reincarnation is a joke. God is imaginary. Picking who will be the next Dalai Lama/pope/whatever is an exercise in futility. I read this story and I am saddened that people actually believe any of this stuff. I want a free Tibet, too. But face the truth: the Dalai Lama (as with all religious leaders) was picked arbitrarily because they happened to follow some man-made rules. Wait a minute! I think I'm going to reincarnate myself to be the second coming of Jesus! Coming soon to a church near you: Jesus II! How about our society moves beyond the mere supernatural to reason and rationality? Try it, you might like it!

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

SHI — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 11:02:50 GMT

Everyone has right to say. but I must tell you that you did known the really china,which is a wonderful place.
The facts will speak for themselves
I just want to say that Tibet's beautiful than before , where people healthier and more well-being

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Janie Galatia IL. — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 12:32:36 GMT

Wasn't there a prophecy about this Dali Lama being the last one born in Tibet? Why not just do as other cultures have done and make a new life in a different country where there enemies can't tell them what to do. That way other Tibeten's could join their people in exile. Maybe it is time to find another way. Where I come from we have a saying," There is more than one way to skin a cat". Tibet may need a different knife to skin their cat.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

James Heartland — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 13:51:06 GMT

I've been there, both China and Tibet. The Chinese have NO authority to interfere in the internal affairs of another government. They should follow their own propaganda! Tibet was NEVER part of China. In the center of Lhasa is an obelisk several hundred years old. It was erected after Tibet agreed to allow China to rule itself, and the two countries made an mutual support and non-aggression agreement. We don't hear much about how long and how much of China Tibet controlled, but there it is! Apologists for totalitarianism make me laugh. It's like those people who said Hitler was harmless. If you saw the effects of Chinese, "tolerance," in Lhasa, you'd realize VERY easily what LIARS the Communist Chinese are. Look at history. When has any group or individual in power given it up easily? Never. China sees religious freedom as just that. FREEDOM. A totalitarian government that wants TOTAL control, can't allow any activity which fires the imagination or spirituality of a people, because it undermines their authority, and exposes their lies. Tibet for Tibetans. China out of Tibet, What a shame the world isn't screaming for Tibetan independence!

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

sonam zoksang — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 14:05:03 GMT

The Chinese leaders have no courage to deal with the Dalai Lama and the real issue of Tibet. Fifty years of atrocities, lies, propaganda, destructions, and killings have not changed the minds and hearts of the Tibetan people inside and outside of Tibet. And it will never change until the Tibet issue gets resolved. It is in the best interest of China to negotiate with the Dalai Lama before it is too late.

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

David Henault — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 15:05:05 GMT

The Chinese occupation of Tibet should not be viewed as a success based on a rise in that regions GNP . The Dalai Lama will always live in the hearts and minds of the Tibetan people . A Lama picked by Beijing will never be recognized by this community . Traditional buddhist culture has been reduced to tourist attractions since the occupation . This is not to say that the Tibetan people have changed their ideology but that the government suppreses free speach and limits activities within the temples to be ceremonial in nature . The Tibetans had a huge portion of the population that were monks and nuns . Temples were destroyed monks and nuns were killed and sexually assaulted and many were imprisoned for decades . This was all done in an effort to homogenize the Tibetan culture . The level of happiness of the residents of a region is not merely based upon economic activity . Bhutan has the highest level of happiness when weighed against economic activity . Westerners are so externally motivated that this is the only standard that we judge a culture .
Richard Gere made a huge contribution to the world when he raised awareness of the plight of the Tibetan people .

Tibetans plot future, Dalai Lama reincarnation

Sam XY Wang — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 16:01:25 GMT

Native Americans are very good examples and lessons that China should humbly learn from the USA