SPREAD THE LOVE CELEBRATES DALAI LAMA

The Dalai Lama is recognized as one of the world’s most influential and inspirational voices. From September 30th to October 1st, 2009, Calgarians gathered at NOW, an unforgettable two-day event and conference.

Thousands gathered at Calgary’s Pengrowth Saddledome to hear His Holiness address the power of social responsibility and compassion. Calgarians engaged in powerful community discussion during the NOW conference while youth and students participated in leadership workshops during engage YOUTH.

As conference speaker, Rob Aronson presented at the engage YOUTH conference, championing the theme of “Leading as a Change-maker: Building a Movement for Social Change”. Youth attending the session engaged in high-energy interaction, receiving direction to implement community programs and social change.

Aronson says that listening to His Holiness the Dalai Lama was a special moment and it was inspiring to be in his presence.

“The Dalai Lama’s genuine compassion and light-hearted humor met with the vibrancy of our city and our youth,” says Aronson. “You could literally feel the tranquility and peace emanating from the thousands who gathered to learn from this ‘simple’ Buddhist monk, a peace and tranquility that magically transferred from teacher to students.”

It was a special experience for young people. The Dalai Lama addressed Calgary at large while focusing his message to the city’s youth, notes an excited Aronson.

“Calgarians were inspired during NOW, and as we gathered during the conference, youth had the incredible opportunity to transform the inspiration to practical engagement and discussion.”