The Dalai Lama's philosophy is a mixture of realism, practicality and idealism. Through Pico Iyer's observations, a more personal outlook into the monk's life is revealed. The way in which the Dalai Lama characterizes life affects how he approaches it. While he certainly possesses lots of answers, he also acknowledges that he can not know everything. He accepts that in omniscience, his understanding of the universe is but fractional. He continues to teach lessons on meditation, kindness and its natural effectiveness, and resilience in the face of suffering. Perhaps the greatest lesson of all, however, is his experience itself. His entire life seems to be lived with purpose, every moment meaningful and full of wisdom.
Pico Iyer uses many personal stories with the Dalai Lama to credit his observations. He also quotes from him and references conversations/dialogues that they've had. He pulls examples from certain events in history to help him prove his points. When his writing isn't completely focused on intellectual content, he takes the time to set the mood. He describes the Dalai Lama during meditation, during conversation, during serious times. One aspect of the book that I found interesting and effective was the way in which Pico Iyer divided the book. In some sense, Pico Iyer's book almost floats around, seemingly without a skeleton; however, as one reads on, he realizes that there is a structure. He splits Dalai Lama's life into three general sections, with three additional subsections each; such titles included: The Philosopher, The Monk, and The Mystery. Each chapter is like a piece of the whole picture. In conclusion, Pico Iyer returns to an occurrence referenced in the beginning of the book. He reflects a bit on how the Dalai Lama has affected his life, and how he continues to receive more and more of the Dalai Lama's wisdom. By leaving on such a note, he leaves readers with a strange sense of hope.
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