Richard Gere Urges Kindness as Key Parenting Lesson from Dalai Lama

UPDATE: In a compelling new interview, actor Richard Gere, 76, reveals that the most crucial parenting advice he imparts to his sons centers on one powerful message: kindness. This profound lesson, he says, was inspired by a conversation with the Dalai Lama, a close friend and spiritual guide to Gere for decades.

Gere’s heartfelt reflections were shared in an interview published by People magazine just yesterday. He emphasizes, “You show kindness. That’s the best thing you can do.” With three sons—one from his previous marriage to Carey Lowell and two with current wife Alejandra Silva—Gere hopes this message resonates deeply as they navigate the complexities of the world.

The actor recounts a pivotal moment where the Dalai Lama was asked by a couple how to raise a child in today’s world. “His Holiness said, ‘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,’” Gere recalls. “To even respect the life of an insect… that carries over into all of your life.” This timeless wisdom underscores the importance of empathy and respect for all living beings.

Gere, a practicing Buddhist since 1978, has long embraced the teachings of the Dalai Lama. His spiritual journey began in his 20s, filled with questions about purpose and meaning. “It wasn’t a particular event,” he shared, “but an ongoing innate questioning of what is this? Why am I here?”

In October 2024, Gere produced the documentary Wisdom of Happiness, which features the Dalai Lama and premiered at the Zurich Film Festival. This film further amplifies his commitment to spreading messages of compassion and mindfulness.

Reflecting on his first encounter with the Dalai Lama in the Himalayas, Gere described the spiritual leader’s authenticity: “He’s completely simple and direct and honest. There’s no pretense about him whatsoever.” This sincerity is what makes the Dalai Lama’s teachings resonate so profoundly with Gere and many others.

As the world grapples with increasing strife and division, Gere’s call for kindness is more urgent than ever. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to adopt this fundamental principle, fostering a more compassionate future for the next generation.

For those looking for inspiration amid challenging times, Richard Gere’s insights offer a beacon of hope. As he emphasizes the importance of kindness, the ripple effect of such teachings can transform lives.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story and how these teachings may influence parenting trends globally.