“Dangerous consequence will follow when politicians and rulers forget moral principles.  Whether we believe in God or karma, ethics is the foundation of every religion.”

H.H. Dalai Lama

As I sit for my first class with the Dalai Lama, he laughs out loud at the Americans clapping.  He said “You Westerners hear something and it sounds nice so you clap.”  He thought it was funny that we didn’t expect effort with the words.  Growing exasperated, he then asked that everyone quit clapping and instead engage in right action.  Everyone agreed with this sentiment so much that they clapped harder than ever!
Perhaps we, as Americans, are too prone to applause.  Perhaps we should learn to appreciate right action more than empty words.
“Make effort and stop clapping.”

H.H. Dalai Lama

If you are interested in the effort in Burma, check out the video: