Sharon Salzberg tells the fascinating story of the first time she saw the Dalai Lama—and witnessed his uncanny ability to zoom in on the person in a crowd who is suffering most and feels most alone. She shares the secret of true kindness she learned that day.

Sharon Salzberg has studied and practiced meditation with Burmese, Indian, and Tibetan teachers for the past 25 years. She is a cofounder of the Barre Center for Buddhist Studies and the Insight Meditation Society, where she lives and teaches. Sharon Salzberg directs meditation retreats throughout the United States and abroad.

She is the author of “Lovingkindness” and (on audio) “Lovingkindness Meditation.” More Sounds of Wisdom

Pema Chodron: Becoming a Friend to Yourself

Marty Rossman: Physical Symptoms Are the Voice of the Body

Marion Woodman: The Wisdom of the Crone

Excerpted from "The Force of Kindness"
By Sharon Salzberg
Audio available at Sounds True.