Richard Gere: True joy comes from within

Richard Gere, a veteran actor and executive producer, shared his perspective on finding lasting happiness, drawing heavily from his four decades of Buddhist practice. He asserts that true contentment originates from within and is not attainable through external factors like fame or material wealth. Gere views afflictive emotions such as greed and anger as temporary states that do not define the mind's inherent clarity and wisdom.

He advises that happiness is cultivated by removing negative habits and understanding that external circumstances are constantly changing. Gere finds significant joy in his family life, particularly in his wife's happiness, and feels a deep connection to his childhood roots in Pennsylvania. He credits his upbringing and grandfather's farm for instilling values of acceptance and hard work.

These principles, he notes, resonate with the dedication of the Dalai Lama, who also engages in daily spiritual practice. Gere, who serves as an executive producer for the documentary 'Wisdom of Happiness,' hopes its message of compassion and kindness will resonate with audiences in challenging times.