His Holiness The Dalai Lama visited Rotterdam today, Sunday 16 September 2018 and I had the rare privilege to hear him speak on the theme of ‘Why compassion is essential in our troubled world.’

It was an extremely inspiring, sometimes hilarious (His Holiness has a great sense of humor) and unexpectedly also very emotional morning (complete with goosebumps and glistening eyes), listening to one of the most important spiritual leaders of our time. His Holiness’ message of sharing kindness and compassion resonated deeply with me. In a packed Ahoy stadium you could literally feel the positive energy radiating from the stage into the audience and spread like a wildfire, enveloping everyone in a warm and loving embrace. Suddenly, I genuinely couldn’t understand why anyone is at war with anyone else since we are all humans and we are all physically, mentally and emotionally alike.

His Holiness stressed that it is very important to educate everyone but especially our children on the importance of the inner life so as to teach them selflessness and compassion for themselves and others.

I couldn’t agree more.

This Sunday morning in the presence of The Dalai Lama (and let’s not forget Richard Gere, who is the chairman of the International Campaign for Tibet and who did a live interview with His Holiness) was truly unique and unforgettable.

Sometimes you just have to consciously take some time for yourself.

I think it’s always important to show some attention to details concerning form and colour.

This colourful little scene makes me feel joyous and happy!

Do you also allow yourselves such a moment?

Just because it’s a grey day outside and I feel the need for some colors…

“There is no greater gift that you can give or receive than to honor your calling”

– Oprah Winfrey

A good friend made this especially for me. So touching but I also hope the text may be an inspiration to others. The text on the left reads: “Listen to your heart because that is right”.

The text below reads:

“Dear Pascale,
Follow your heart, the words you said to me and that you have acted upon. Listen to your heart and do that which makes you happy. For you this is writing. You’ve also given this advice to me, which gave me the courage to indeed follow my heart.

Dear Pascale, I hope you will inspire many other people to follow their feelings and I hope that you’ll write many new beautiful books.”