We know you have only been back for a week, but chances are you already have mounds of homework and numerous meetings to attend. Before your schedule gets too hectic, though, might we suggest that you pencil in some time to see the Dalai Lama speak in Seattle April 11th through April 15th?

The last time the Tibetan Buddhist leader and Nobel Prize winner spoke in the Northwest was in November 2001 in Portland at a peace rally, so the rarity of this opportunity cannot be stressed enough. He hasn't actually been in Seattle itself for almost 15 years.

The five-day event will cover discussions about compassion, business philanthropy, and interfaith dialogue. It was organized by Seeds of Compassion (SOC), which is part of the nonprofit Kirlin Charitable Foundation. SOC's mission involves teaching and nurturing kindness and compassion in the world.

The Dalai Lama will participate in these events and will also join schoolchildren at Key Arena on April 14th for a discussion on kindness.

"We should make every effort to make this century the century of dialogue. This must come from a compassionate heart," the Dalai Lama said in a media statement, according to the Seattle Times. "I really feel that this conference can plant positive seeds for a happy future and a happy world, particularly for children. They, the younger generation, are the real basis for our hope."

Students should show their support for the Dalai Lama by attending these events. Although he may not represent Christianity per se, he supports Christian values and teachings. His lifelong dedication to resisting oppression, despite being exiled from his home, is consistent with Christ's teachings of social justice.

The event is free and open to the public, but requires tickets. For more information, check out SOC's website, www.seedsofcompassion.net.