Exploration 11

   Nelson Mandela was the co-recipient of the 1993 Nobel Peace Prize he shared the award with Frederik Willem de Klerk.  Mandela had a very interesting upbringing and young life, he was born one of 13 children.  His father had four wives, and Mandela was born to the third wife.  He was the leader of an anti-government organization and orchestrated many bombings and sabotaging escapades for which he was imprisoned.  After his release, Mandela launched himself into politics once again, only this time it resulted in his election as president, instead of imprisonment.  Mandela is now 94 years old and resides in Johannesburg.  South Africa is now fairly stable but has an injured economy.

The Dalai Lama's Winter residence--Living in humble simplicity.

            The Dalai Lama is a position of religious power created by the Mongolians in the late 14^th century.  The name the full Mongolian title of Dalai Lama means the wonderful Vajradhara, good splendid meritorious ocean, often summarized as The Ocean of Wisdom.  Some of the past Dalai Lamas have been overthrown for their lack of self-discipline.  There is naturally a conflict between China and the Dalai Lama because of the Dalai Lama’s Mongolian origins.  China and Mongolia do not have a very amicable history, in fact they are known for their relentless wars and conflicts.  In a modern perspective, the Dalai Lama stands for world peace, and being one with everything.  China, on the other hand, stands for large armies, large corporations, large government, large bank accounts communism and small regard for human existence.  I have respect for the Dalai Lama, however, I do not remotely agree with his religious views.  I do like his passion, and determination… and his house