Dalai Lama Fellows
Matthew Silberman
Leadership Vision
My vision is to realize that each person is unique, but also part of a larger whole. We work best not when totally independent from the whole or dependent on the group, but rather when we have interdependence, which is something in between. I will love and listen to myself, and extend this capacity to love and listen to all people, noticing humanity in others and cherishing what makes us all special.
Project Description
My project will bring together students and campus service workers (such as dining staff and janitors) to participate in a series of workshops that develop skills in storytelling, deep listening, and compassion. Participants will leave the project with a renewed vigor and hope about the possibility of finding deep connections on campus, as well as greater confidence in their stories and their ability to share those stories. Finally, audience members will see the common humanity of the diverse range of participants, and be motivated to engage more with the people around them, including through direct service opportunities.