Tolerance and Understanding for an Alien Religion

I would like to take just a minute to commend your writer, Kathleen Hendrix, on her excellent article on the Dalai Lama (“Man of Love and Laughter,” July 20).

Her article was written with a great deal of insight and natural curiosity, but also with fondness and understanding, something most people seem to lack when faced with a culture or religion that is alien to their own. She also captured his lyrical way of speaking to perfection. Since I have attended his lectures, I could almost hear him speaking by reading her quotes.

Also, she was very perceptive to the “aura” or “presence” that many people feel when in the company of the Dalai Lama, and you don’t need to be a Buddhist to feel this way. It may just be that he is such an extraordinary human being that most people would feel almost humbled by his presence.

J. BUTTERBRODT

Villa Park