Description:
In "My Spiritual Journey," His Holiness the Dalai Lama offers a rare and intimate look at his personal life and beliefs, providing a powerful complement to his more formal teachings. This book is a spiritual autobiography, where the Dalai Lama reflects on the extraordinary circumstances of his life—from his youth as the spiritual leader of Tibet to his life in exile—and shares how these experiences have shaped his core philosophy. The book’s central theme is the development of a profound and unconditional compassion that is the wellspring of both personal peace and global well-being.
The Dalai Lama discusses the importance of a personal spiritual practice, the interconnectedness of all human beings, and the need to find a path to happiness that is not dependent on external circumstances. He candidly shares his thoughts on a range of topics, including politics, science, and human rights, demonstrating how his spiritual values inform every aspect of his life. For individuals in recovery, "My Spiritual Journey" is a deeply inspiring resource that shows how a commitment to compassion and inner work can transform even the most challenging life circumstances into a path of liberation and service to others. It is a testament to the power of the human spirit to find peace and purpose in the face of adversity.
Study Guide for Recovery
This study guide is designed to help you explore the concepts in "My Spiritual Journey" and apply them to your own journey of recovery.
Key Themes & Concepts
- Compassion in Action: The book highlights how the Dalai Lama has used compassion not just as a feeling but as a guiding principle for his actions, even in the most difficult situations.
- The Power of Personal Practice: The Dalai Lama's journey demonstrates the importance of a daily spiritual practice—whether it's meditation, prayer, or quiet reflection—for cultivating inner strength and peace.
- Finding Purpose in Adversity: The book shows how the Dalai Lama's struggles and exile have deepened his commitment to compassion and global peace, offering a powerful example of turning suffering into purpose.
- The Interconnectedness of All Beings: A core Buddhist teaching that the Dalai Lama exemplifies is the understanding that we are all connected, which is a powerful antidote to the isolation often experienced in addiction.
Discussion Questions
- The Dalai Lama's life story is one of great adversity. How has your own life story shaped your spiritual journey and your path to recovery?
- The book emphasizes that compassion is a practice. What is one way you can practice compassion—for yourself or for others—today?
- The Dalai Lama found purpose in the face of immense suffering. How can you find a sense of purpose in your own recovery journey and use it to help others?
- The book shows that our external circumstances do not have to dictate our inner peace. What is one thing you are committed to doing for your recovery today, regardless of what is happening around you?
- How can the concept of interconnectedness help you to feel less isolated in your recovery and more connected to your community?
Additional Resources
- Website: The Dalai Lama Official Site:
- Visit the official site for His Holiness the Dalai Lama for more teachings, public schedules, and information on his work. https://www.dalailama.com/
- Video: "The Dalai Lama on Compassion"
- Watch a short video clip of the Dalai Lama discussing his most central teaching and the importance of compassion in everyday life. (Search "Dalai Lama compassion" on YouTube.)
- Article: "Spirituality in Recovery"
- This article from a recovery-focused publication explores the role of spirituality, regardless of one's religious beliefs, in finding a meaningful life in recovery. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/counseling-keys/201905/coping-skills-addiction-and-recovery
- Resource: The Mind & Life Institute:
- Explore resources from this organization, co-founded by the Dalai Lama, which fosters a dialogue between contemplative traditions and modern science. https://www.mindandlife.org/
