Just out of curiosity, why do you have tremendous respect for the DL?
I've read 'art of happiness' and a few of his other books, as well as some by various advisors and other Buddhist practioners. They are all very good reads. Meditation is a very good and relaxing practice and the Dahli Lama is a very wise and good person.
I recall reading something abuot him a year or so ago where he happened to be in the same room (like during a TV interview switch or something) as Al Sharpton and some other Dem politicians. And he said something like:
"Politicians I think just say what people want to hear".
Forget exactly, but it was pretty funny.
I've read quite a bit of his writing, and like Travis here, was pretty impressed by his wisdom and gentleness.
I practice meditation as a stress-management method, and have found him to be a source of inspiration.