Seeker's Circle Club

I first saw Seven Years in Tibet when it came out in 1997, and then again more recently. While I don’t remember all the details perfectly, I do recall how much the story moved me—both as a lover of historical fiction and as someone deeply curious about spiritual transformation. Watching it again with fresh eyes, I found myself still captivated by the beautiful landscapes, the emotional arc, and the quiet beauty of Tibetan culture as portrayed on screen. The film is less about historical precision and more about one man’s inner transformation. Yes, there has been controversy—Heinrich Harrer, the real-life figure portrayed by Brad Pitt, was a member of the Nazi Party. From what I’ve read, however, his involvement seemed more circumstantial, as he was an athlete and mountaineer who spent the entire war exiled in Tibet. The film touches lightly on his past, choosing instead to focus on his growth through connection with the Tibetan people and, most especially, with the young Dalai Lama. An interesting tidbit: The Dalai Lama himself wrote a three-paragraph foreword to Harrer’s memoir (from which the movie takes its title), acknowledging their genuine friendship. That part of the story, at least, seems grounded in truth. Even with its historical imperfections, the film offers a beautiful narrative of humility, cross-cultural friendship, and spiritual awakening. The storyline is compelling, and the cinematography is absolutely gorgeous—Tibet becomes a character in itself, filled with sacred beauty and serene presence. About Seven Years in Tibet This 1997 drama, directed by Jean-Jacques Annaud, tells the story of Austrian mountaineer Heinrich Harrer, who, after being interned by the British during World War II, escapes into the remote world of Tibet. There, he befriends the young 14th Dalai Lama and is slowly transformed by the people and the teachings he encounters. The film isn’t a strict historical account, but rather a deeply personal epic of redemption, spiritual insight, and human connection across vastly different cultures. Themes in Seven Years in Tibet 1. Spiritual Transformation – The softening of Harrer’s ego through exposure to Buddhist philosophy and Tibetan life. 2. Cultural Exchange – A Western man deeply changed through friendship with the East. 3. Redemption and Humility – Harrer’s journey from arrogance to awareness. 4. The Beauty of Simplicity – The peaceful rhythm of Tibetan life and its impact on the restless mind. 5. Mentorship and Innocence – The unique and tender bond between Harrer and the young Dalai Lama. 6. Colonialism and Occupation – The looming presence of Chinese invasion and loss of cultural freedom. 7. Impermanence – A core Buddhist theme subtly reflected in the landscape and plot. 8. Exile and Belonging – What it means to be far from home, yet find connection in foreign soil. Questions for Reflection & Discussion 1. How did Harrer’s journey reflect the themes of inner transformation and spiritual awakening? 2. What role does the Dalai Lama play in Harrer’s redemption arc? How did their friendship shape the story? 3. Does knowing about Harrer’s controversial past affect your experience of the film? Why or why not? 4. How does the cinematography and portrayal of Tibet shape your emotional response to the story? 5. What do you make of the film’s treatment of cultural preservation and loss? 6. How does the film handle themes of ego, detachment, and humility? 7. What does the movie say about forgiveness—of self and others? 8. Did any moments feel particularly moving or spiritually significant to you? 9. Do you think the film does justice to Tibetan Buddhism, despite its Western perspective? 10. What stays with you the most after watching—plot, visuals, or the emotional journey? Let’s open the space to share—what did Seven Years in Tibet stir in you? What reflections did it spark about your own journey, or your connection to place, peace, and purpose? Share your thoughts below. Link to Interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SdONrTbaMCA Link to Movie's Historical Check (SPOILER ALERT): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Xl02McAL_Q

I discovered Walk With Me after reading two of Thich Nhat Hanh’s books, and by that time, I already felt deeply connected to his teachings. His words had guided me toward a more mindful and compassionate way of living, but seeing him on screen—watching him walk, speak, and simply exist—was an entirely different experience. There’s something incredibly powerful about witnessing his presence, his calm, and his way of being in the world. This documentary gave me a more intimate look at his life, his monastic community, and the mindfulness practices I had only read about. It made me long to visit Plum Village one day—to step into that space of deep peace and connection, to walk the same paths, and to immerse myself in the energy of those who have dedicated their lives to mindful living. Watching this film felt like a meditation in itself, a gentle invitation to slow down, breathe, and truly be present. About Walk With Me Walk With Me is a meditative documentary that offers a rare glimpse inside the Plum Village Monastery in France, home to the Zen Buddhist master Thich Nhat Hanh and his community of monks and nuns. Filmed over three years, the documentary follows the daily lives of the monastics, capturing their rituals, meditations, and teachings as they embody the practice of mindfulness. It also follows them on a U.S. speaking tour, sharing their wisdom with the world. Narrated by Benedict Cumberbatch, the film weaves in passages from Thich Nhat Hanh’s early journals, offering insights into his reflections on life, suffering, and inner peace. At its heart, Walk With Me is more than just a film—it’s an experience. It invites us to slow down, breathe deeply, and contemplate what it truly means to live mindfully. Themes in the Film 1. Mindfulness in Everyday Life – How can we bring mindfulness into our daily routines, just as the monastics do? 2. The Power of Presence – Thich Nhat Hanh teaches that true happiness comes from being fully present in each moment. 3. Community & Connection – The monastic sangha provides a living example of deep human connection through shared mindfulness. 4. Impermanence & Acceptance – The film explores Buddhist teachings on change, suffering, and learning to let go. 5. Silence as a Teacher – Walk With Me is not a film filled with explanations; it is a film that invites you to feel, to listen to the silence, and to discover insights within yourself. Movie Club Questions for Reflection: 1. If you’ve read Thich Nhat Hanh’s books, how did seeing him on screen change or deepen your understanding of his teachings? 2. What aspects of the Plum Village way of life resonate with you the most? Could you see yourself practicing in such a space? 3. The film emphasizes the power of silence and presence—how do you cultivate mindfulness in your own life? 4. What part of the documentary stayed with you the most? Was there a specific teaching or scene that resonated deeply? 5. Thich Nhat Hanh speaks about “peace in every step.” How can we apply this idea in our daily lives, even in moments of stress or chaos? Let’s reflect together—what did Walk With Me awaken in you? Have you ever felt called to visit a space like Plum Village, or perhaps even create your own sanctuary of peace in daily life? Share your thoughts below.

If you’ve ever found yourself frustrated, hurt, or confused by the actions of others, Let Them by Mel Robbins offers a simple yet powerful perspective shift: just let them. This book isn’t about giving up or being passive—it’s about freeing yourself from the exhausting cycle of trying to control, change, or convince people to act a certain way. Mel Robbins, known for her no-nonsense approach to self-improvement, delivers a message that’s both liberating and practical. She reminds us that people will do what they want, and instead of wasting energy resisting that reality, we should focus on what we can control—our own choices, reactions, and boundaries. One of the book’s most impactful takeaways is that letting people be who they are doesn’t mean you have to tolerate mistreatment. It means recognizing their behavior for what it is, accepting that they are showing you who they truly are, and deciding how you want to respond. Whether it’s in relationships, friendships, work, or family dynamics, Let Them is a game-changer for anyone who struggles with over-explaining, people-pleasing, or taking things personally. If you’re ready to let go of frustration and embrace peace, this book is a must-read! Have you read Let Them? What are your thoughts?