Speaking of Tibetan lamas in Seattle...

Update, 4.12: The Herald Tribune sets the spiritual scene in the city.

"Organizers of the five-day Seeds of Compassion conference in Seattle say the Dalai Lama's visit is expected to draw more than 150,000 people.

"Despite political pressure from China, the Dalai Lama was determined to attend the conference because of his commitment to global peace, organizers said.

"'He wants compassion for both sides, for the Tibetans, for the Chinese brothers,' said Lama Tenzin Dhonden, a Tibetan monk who spearheaded the development of the conference.

"Seeds of Compassion will feature dozens of workshops on various subjects, beginning with a panel discussion Friday with the Dalai Lama on 'The Scientific Basis for Compassion: What We Know Now.' Early childhood development is one of the main focuses of the conference.

"Tickets for events involving the Dalai Lama have already sold out, according to the conference Web site."

Refer to the previous post to learn about the Karmapa Lama's visit to Seattle and other US cities next month.