DOE Superintendent Kathryn Matayoshi explained that Kailua High School was selected for the Dalai Lama’s visit because of its educational programs on compassion and conflict resolution.

“These resonate with the core mission of His Holiness,” she said.

Students performed a welcoming hula, unfazed by the fact that the gym’s PA system failed to pick up the lead chanter pounding on the ipu. The Dalai Lama himself motioned to the guys running the sound board to please fix the mics.

The Dalai Lama was presented a yellow kapa, which is the color for healers. “It also seems to match your wardrobe,” said the gift presenter, Dalani Tanahy. He called it a “very meaningful yellow scarf.”

Unlike his other appearances, the Dalai Lama gave just brief remarks because, as he said, he wanted more interaction with students and teachers.

“I am very happy mixing with the younger generation, because time is always moving,” he said. “No force can stop time. Then past is past.”

— Chad Blair