The Dalai Lama arrives in Minn. for first Twin Cities visit since 2001
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More than 100 people lined the streets and gathered outside the University of Minnesota's Eastcliff house to greet the Dalai Lama.
Tibet's spiritual leader in exile's first stop in Minnesota was a private reception. A quiet crowd gathered outside. Many in the group were Tibetan immigrants from India.
Nima Lhamo put on a formal outfit for the occasion. She held flowers as the Dalai Lama's car drove past.
"I feel like I just met my teacher, parents," Lhamo said. "He always teach us how to be a good person, how to be good to yourself and help others, and that's why he's here -- to guide other people to a happy life."
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People burned incense and held flowers as the Dalai Lama's car drove past.
The U's Center for Spirituality and Healing is one of the hosts of the visit. Center spokesman Tony Baisley met the Dalai Lama during a welcoming reception.
"When you meet him even for that brief moment, he's yours and you're his in his eyes. It's a very special quality. I think the people of Minnesota have a lot to be excited about over the next couple of days," Baisley said.
The Dalai Lama will participate in many events this weekend, including a public address on Sunday afternoon at the University of Minnesota. His speech is entitled "Peace through Inner Peace."
This is the Dalai Lama's first trip to the Twin Cities since 2001. It may be the last before he retires from his position as leader of the Tibetan government in exile. He submitted his resignation in March, which would take effect once constitutional changes are accepted.
