When I meet people in different parts of the world, I am always reminded that we are all basically alike: we are all human beings. Maybe we have different clothes, our skin is of a different colour, or we speak different languages. That is on the surface. But basically, we are the same human beings. That is what binds us to each other. That is what makes it possible for us to understand each other and to develop friendship and closeness.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Despite external differences like culture and appearance, all humans share a fundamental nature that connects us.
- In plain terms
- We are all humans at heart, which is what truly connects us.
- What can you take from it?
- Recognize our shared humanity to build understanding and friendship.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What do you have in common with someone very different from you?
- How does recognizing shared humanity change how you treat others?
Another view
Surface differences can sometimes create genuine barriers to connection.
More from Tenzin Gyatso (Dalai Lama)
As we enter the final decade of this century I am optimistic that the ancient values that have sustained mankind are today reaffirming themselves to prepare us…
Permalink to quote #36 Because we all share this small planet earth, we have to learn to live in harmony and peace with each other and with nature. That is not just a dream, but a ne…
Permalink to quote #38 With the ever-growing impact of science on our lives, religion and spirituality have a greater role to play by reminding us of our humanity. There is no contra…
Permalink to quote #35
Related quotes
When I meet people in different parts of the world, I am always reminded that we are all basically alike: we are all human beings. Maybe we have different clot…
Tenzin GyatsoTenzin Gyatso quote #37 You know what I want to think of myself? As a human being. because, I mean I don't want to be like 'As Confucius say,' but under the sky, under the heavens the…
Bruce LeeBruce Lee quote #1 Perhaps travel cannot prevent bigotry, but by demonstrating that all peoples cry, laugh, eat, worry, and die, it can introduce the idea that if we try and unde…
Maya AngelouMaya Angelou quote #3