A Message from H.E. Ling Rinpoche to the Festival of Tibet in Brisbane
To all my Dear Friends in Australia,
I would like to extend my thanks and appreciation for your kind invitation to attend the Festival of Tibet in Brisbane. I regret that due to the global COVID-19 pandemic, I am unable to be with you in person at this event, which makes an important contribution to international Tibetan community development and to raising the profile of Tibet’s unique cultural tradition in the context of Australia’s multi-cultural society.
I hope and pray that you are all keeping safe and well. My congratulations to you all for your ability to adapt so quickly and effectively to the rapidly changing circumstances leading to this online gathering today. I am writing from India and would like to reassure everyone that I am in very good health.
I have been praying for all beings who are suffering from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and particularly for those who have tragically lost their lives. This global crisis has left millions experiencing illness, grief and extreme hardship. We have all been required to drastically change our lives to prevent the spread of the virus.
In Australia, the standard of living is generally quite high, and the health care system is world-class. Nonetheless, every precaution must be taken to prevent the disastrous situations we are sadly witnessing in other highly developed nations. The Australian Government has made a very swift and encouraging response to protect its citizens by introducing social distancing regulations and by providing substantial income support to those in need.
I feel confident that the leaders of your great country are doing everything in their power to minimize the impact of the pandemic on the Australian population.
I feel deeply grateful to all those courageous people in Australia and around the world who are making great personal sacrifices and placing themselves and their families at risk in order to alleviate the suffering of others, including health care workers, teachers, police, grocery store workers, public servants and all those who continue providing essential services at this time. It’s also important to remember that countless people are caring for others at home, such as providing vital practical and emotional support to their loved ones, neighbors and strangers.
I would like to encourage everyone to continue helping and supporting each other, to overcome this difficult situation together.
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this time,
Ling Rinpoche
15th April 2020
