Q: Who do you think you are to have a picture of His Holiness on your talk page?
A: It's a CCL 2.0 image and I don't need anyone's permission; I like the ambience the picture creates. I have been contemplating the teachings of Buddhism since I was a child, as my Mom was a student of Alan Watts' books on Taoism and Zen. Later, I met Chungliang Al Huang, who was Allan Watt's co-author, and although it has nothing to do with HHDL, it was an auspicious meeting which helped to motivate my interest in Asian modes of thought and interaction. Thereafter, I have defended His Holiness both from inappropriate and disrespectful treatment amongst the alienated, unenlightened commercial media establishments, and, indirectly, during the pre-Olympics protests when I interceded between a mob of angry, confused Chinese students and the Tibetan Freedom Riders including His Holiness's nephew. I have had numerous contacts with the Tibetan Buddhist community in which we have discussed Jesus and perhaps certain Old Testament prophets as the equivalent of Boddhisattvas. There is more to this but that is beyond the scope of this justification. His Holiness has graciously promulgated his inspiring visage where it protects and enobles every place where it is displayed, including this talk page.
Q: So what is the point?
A: The point is that you are expected to exercise mindfulness when contacting me, rather than speaking from the narrow perspective of ego. Suggested reading is the first page or so of the Dhammapada.
Q: So does this mean that you claim to be a Buddhist?
A: That is really personal information which is not necessarily anyone's business but my own. Just because study Buddhism does not mean that I deny or disclaim Jesus or Moses! If you are hung up on categorization, please read (1)the Heart Sutra and (2)fuzzy logic.
Q: What is the relevance of this FAQ?
A: Cf Wikipedia:Civility. His Holiness is a great example and it would be wise for us to all follow his example.
Q: Why don't you put a picture of Jesus on your talk page?
A: The one I like best is not CCL, otherwise, not a bad idea.
