As stated in the discussion at the Sao Paulo conference, the rapacious
cutting of timber the destruction of the rain forests and other forest
area, can only be defined as a threat against existence on this planet
and a crime against the continued existence of the human race. We, as
refugees from the Communist Chinese and their totalitarian government,
know what it is to be without a home.
When forests are destroyed many beings both corporeal and non-corporeal
also become refugees. However, even greater is the threat that due to
such actions climatic patterns are altered all over this planet. When
this occurs the very basis of life on this planet could be affected, and
then where will we find a place the inhabitants of this planets known as
the Rose-Apple Location -- where will they find a place to flee?
I can only say therefore it is the duty of every human being, and
particularly those who have belief in the Buddhist Dharma, to protect
life and to use any legal means possible to prevent the further cutting
of forests, and to make public the grasping rapaciouss of those
individuals and companies, syndicates and consortiums, who are
responsible.
It has been said in the writings of Je Tsonkapa that whosoever destroys
a tree commits a thousand murders. Even though these individuals believe
that this is their only life, their belief does not in any way affect
the universal laws of karma, cause and effect, and of rebirth. I assure
you as Head of the Gelugpa ineage and the religious leader of Tibet and
the Tibetan People in Exile that karma is a reality and that rebirth is
a reality and that whosoever is responsible for the cutting of even one
Redwood tree will spend many lifetimes in the lower realms as a hungry
ghost or as a hell being This is what the buddha taught.
Therefore, I call upon you who are in positions of authority in these
corporations, syndicates, and consortiums, to stop this action which
harms all beings; now, at this very momnet to stop your actions. I call
upon all of you who are employed in this destruction to cast aside your
sharp axes and other impliments and resign your positions with these
corporations.
You do not know what harm you cause yourselves and the karma you project
into your future lifetimes. So, be warned, this is not your only life,
and only future pain and suffering in a lower realm can result from
these actions.
This is Tenzin Gyatso speaking to you through my emmissary, Lama Yeshe.
Please, for the sake of your happiness and the happiness of all
sentiment beings, heed these words.
Given on the telephone on the 14th day of September 1995 by myself,
Gelong Tenzin Gyatso, the 13th Dalai Lama, speaking from Dharamasala.
(Dictated by telephone on Thursday, 14 September, 1995 PST, but Friday,
15 Sept. Dharamsala time)