One of the most learned and highly trained American-born lamas in the Tibetan Dzogchen tradition. He is a meditation teacher and author.
There has been a lot of news and speculation lately regarding the Dalai Lama’s recent announcement to retire, as well as questions of succession (usually accomplished by rebirth, not by appointment or voting), and Tibet-China relations. It is worth noting that His Holiness is retiring as Political Head of Tibet-in-exile, not as Spiritual Head, compassionate conscience of the world (Bodhisattva), and religious leader.
For more insight, I recommend reading this article by Pico Iyer, a well known international journalist and Buddhist, who has known the Dalai Lama for decades.
Tibet’s Quiet Revolution- Pico Iyer