Richard Gere, the acclaimed actor known for his roles in films such as “Pretty Woman,” recently shared that the most valuable parenting advice he has received comes from his long-time friend, the Dalai Lama. In an interview published by People, Gere emphasized the importance of kindness as a fundamental lesson he wishes to impart to his sons.
Gere, aged 76, expressed that the essence of this lesson stems from a significant conversation between friends and the Dalai Lama. He recalled, “You show kindness. That’s the best thing you can do,” highlighting the moral obligation he feels towards nurturing compassion in his children. The actor has three sons: one with his ex-wife, Carey Lowell, and two with his current wife, Alejandra Silva.
The actor’s insights were influenced by an exchange he witnessed years ago. A couple, concerned about bringing a child into a complicated world, posed a question to the Dalai Lama about how to teach their future child. Gere recounted the spiritual leader’s profound response: “Teach them to be kind to insects, whom normally people don’t think well of and step on and don’t even think about it. To even respect the life of an insect, [that’s] something that carries over into all of your life.”
For Gere, who has practiced Buddhism since 1978, his friendship with the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, has significantly shaped his worldview. He began his spiritual journey in his twenties, grappling with existential questions about purpose and meaning. “It wasn’t a particular event, but I think there was just an ongoing innate questioning of what is this?” Gere stated, reflecting on the universal search for meaning that many experience during their formative years.
In addition to sharing his parenting philosophy, Gere has also contributed to the documentary “Wisdom of Happiness.” This film, featuring the Dalai Lama, premiered at the Zurich Film Festival in October 2024 and showcases the spiritual leader’s insights on happiness and compassion.
Gere’s first encounter with the Dalai Lama took place in the foothills of the Himalayas, where the spiritual leader was living in exile. He recalled, “Even from the first time I met him, he’s completely simple and direct and honest. There’s no pretense about him whatsoever.” This candid nature has fostered a deep respect and admiration in Gere, who likens the experience to conversing with a beloved family member or an esteemed professor.
As he continues to navigate both his professional and personal life, Richard Gere remains committed to instilling the values of kindness and compassion in the next generation, inspired by the teachings of a man he considers a guiding light.
