Visiting Tibet - ethical dilemma

Mountains

Just found out that there's a good possibility I may be able to do a student exchange for a couple of weeks next year in China. Part of it would include a trip to Lhasa, Tibet. Our program director was just there, and was gushing about how beautiful it was, pics of Potala Palace, etc. I'm definitely interested in doing the trip, as I think it would be a great opportunity for me, but I'd be very divided about going to Tibet and de-facto supporting the Chinese rape of the country and the wonton destruction of the Tibetan culture and religion.

What are others' thoughts on it?

Nirvana

I don't think it's a good idea in the spiritual life to let oneself get all caught up in politics —especailly concerning things about which you have no say or ability to determine outcomes. Much better to consider yourself a witness than an agent and to follow the exploratory and adventuresome part of your psyche than your mere judgmental proclivities.

So long as the intention is pure, you can effect no real wrong. Better to go on a pilgrimmage to a holy site than to forego it on qualms about things long since done. You would not be perpetuating the deeds of the Chinese, but instead commemorating the lives and testimonies of the Tibetans, IMO.

Besides, it is very unlikely that you will later regret your sojourns in such a rarified and special place.

This issue would never occupy my attention for long, but would pass much like a yawn experienced during a parade. The air sacs in my lungs perhaps needed some few seconds stimulation, but so much more that is colorful and captivating is going on around me that I'd not remember that insignificant yawn a minute later.

Dakini

I think you should go for it, Mountains. it's so difficult to get into Tibet--if you have the opp'ty, you should grab it. Be aware that the oxygen is rare at that elevation. The taxis and hotels have oxygen tanks for people. Resist the urge to take photos of the Dalai Lama to hand out. You could be discovered. The Chinese might search you at the airport. Whatever.

I understand your concern. I've vowed never to go to South Africa unless it's to make a contribution in some way, much as I'd love to go. To go as a tourist while there's so much suffering just wouldn't be right, IMO. I guess it's something only you can decide, but I think a student program would be so low-key in terms of money the Chinese would make from it, that wouldn't be a concern. If you go, observe. Be a witness. I'd suggest learning Tibetan (there's a good course available from Snow Lion), but I know you're already overwhelmed.

Oh, and the jet lag coming back is killer. It could put you out for 2 weeks. Don't sign up for a demanding schedule immediately after your return.

It won't be Belize, that's for sure! Kind of exciting, though.

Bodha8

I don't think it's a good idea in the spiritual life to let oneself get all caught up in politics —especailly concerning things about which you have no say or ability to determine outcomes.

Well said Nirvana

Dakini

Sometimes the practice of compassion inevitably gets involved in politics, if there are vested interests in maintaining suffering, in keeping exploitive structures or practices in place. Gandhi's and ML King's movements became political, even though all they were trying to do is end suffering. (Speaking in general.)

To address the OP, I think the question is a matter between Mountains and his conscience. But in the final analysis, it seems relatively harmless (and potentially inspiring, as well as possibly eye-opening) for him to make the journey. Very educational, in any case, no matter what happens, and what he experiences and observes.

We'd love a report, btw, Mountains, after you return!

Mountains

No real guarantee the trip is even going to happen, or if it does, whether Lhasa will be included, but I'll let ya know.