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The Dalai Lama is awarded the annual 1.7 million USD Templeton prize that honors people who "affirm life's spiritual dimension." He encourages Brits not to become discouraged in the face of tough economic times.
Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama warned the British people on Monday against feeling "hopeless" and "helpless" when faced with economic difficulties.
He was speaking just before he received the 1.7 million USD Templeton Prize for his engagement with science and people beyond his religious traditions in a lavish cathedral service.
The revered Buddhist leader responded to a news conference question about offering spiritual advice to the British people suffering from economic turmoil:
[Dalia Lama]:
"We must make effort to work on these things. In order to carry constant effort, we need self-confidence. So please don't feel helpless or hopeless - don't do that. Work hard."
The inside of London's St.Paul's Cathedral echoed to the sounds of Tibetan monks chanting for the official presentation of the award.
Tibetan dancers, along with wind and rain, greeted the Dalai Lama for his first visit to the Cathedral.
Dr. John Templeton, the President and Chairman of the John Templeton Foundation, handed over the official medal (and the cheque).
The Dalai Lama announced he was donating 1.5 million USD of the prize money to Save the Children's work with malnourished children in India.
British Prime Minister David Cameron is scheduled to meet the Dalai Lama later on Monday.