In a show of kindness, the impoverished government of Tibet has donated $30,000 to the New York search and rescue effort, a beautiful gesture on the part of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. He also wrote to the US President, George Bush, on September 12, the day after the terrorist attacks:

 

Your Excellency,

I am deeply shocked by the terrorist attacks … and the immense devastation these caused. It is a terrible tragedy that so many innocent lives have been lost … We are deeply saddened. On behalf of the Tibetan people I would like to convey our deepest condolence and solidarity with the American people during this painful time. Our prayers go out to the many who have lost their lives, those who have been injured and the many more who have been traumatized by this senseless act of violence. I am attending a special prayer for the United States and its people at our main temple today.

I am confident that the United States as a great and powerful nation will be able to overcome this present tragedy. The American people have shown their resilience, courage and determination when faced with such a difficult and sad situation.

It may seem presumptuous on my part, but I personally believe we need to think seriously whether a violent action is the right thing to do and in the greater interest of the nation and people in the long run. I believe violence will only increase the cycle of violence. But how do we deal with hatred and anger, which are often the root causes of such senseless violence? This is a very difficult question, especially when it concerns a nation and we have certain fixed conceptions of how to deal with such attacks. I am sure that you will make the right decision.

With my prayers and good wishes …

His Holiness the Dalai Lama