USD Magazine Summer 2012

other things objectively. It’s important tohave faith towardone’s own religion, and respect for all religions. All of themajor traditions have served humanity for the last thousand years, andmillions of people still get the benefit of immense inspiration, of these sources of hope ... “I’m a staunch Buddhist, however, I sincerely, seriously respect all other religious traditions. Whenever I have the opportunity, I make a pilgrim- age to different holy sites. I started this practice in India in 1975, and whenever I have the opportunity, I go to religious places. Millions of Christian practitioners all over the world are truly dedicated serving to others, it’s a tremendous sort of dedication and it comes from their faith. So there are plenty of reasons for respect.” immense benefit.When you’ve completely lost hope, it’s very bad for your health. Fear is the destroyer of a calmmind. Anger and hatred are the destroyer of peace of mind. And that kind of enemy is within yourself ... “In spite of some sad events in the world, I think humanity is becoming more civilized, more mature. This is my view. There are those who say humanity is basically bad and that the human future is doomed, and I basically disagree. We are just beginning this 21st century. Things are changing. Yes, the economic crisis is bad, but it is good to remind yourself not to take things for granted. Even bad events can be transformed.” On the importance of hope: “I think that a hopeful mental state can have an