Maitreya Project Update

October, 2001

The unthinkable events of September 11, 2001 bring the importance of Maitreya Project clearly into focus. There is no end to a circle of hatred and retaliation. Even more than economic development, the most important quality the world needs is loving-kindness.

Peace cannot be legislated. Peace cannot be imposed. Peace cannot be safeguarded by coalitions and their forces. Peace is the result of loving-kindness. As Lama Zopa Rinpoche explains, loving-kindness is the cause - peace is the result. The attitude of loving-kindness generates peace in the individual, which creates peace in the family, peace in the community, peace within the nation and, in turn, peace within the world.

Maitreya Project's existence is critically important. The Maitreya Project statue has to stand 500 feet tall so that it can be a constant reminder of the need for loving-kindness.

I am sure all of us can now understand this more clearly. Let us work together with even more vigour, enthusiasm and inspiration to complete Maitreya Project as quickly as possible - literally, for the benefit of all living beings.