A Tibetan proverb tells: “Any trouble can be a good opportunity". That's exactly what His Holiness says! Even tragedy is fraught with possibilities. And there is another Tibetan wisdom: "The true nature of happiness can only be discerned in the light of painful experience." Only a sharp contrast with painful experiences teaches us to appreciate the moments of joy.

“This can be seen from the example of a whole generation that had to endure great difficulties,” said the Dalai Lama. “When the African people became free, the hearts of the people were filled with great joy. But the next generation, born in a country cleared of apartheid, is unfamiliar with the true joy of freedom. Therefore, they complain about life much more often.
It's the same in Europe. The older generation has gone through great troubles. Suffering strengthened their spirits and made them stronger. This means that the Tibetan proverb does not lie. Deprivation really makes us appreciate joy. Many people think that suffering is bad. But in fact, this is an opportunity that fate throws at you. Despite the difficulties and anguish, a person can maintain firmness and self-control.”