Q:  Should people from other religious backgrounds become Buddhists or is it a source of confusion?

H.H. Karmapa: It’s an individual’s right and should be based on their own opinion.  Our responsibility is to be ready if they would like to see exactly what Buddhism is so that they can examine it for themselves and then they can see if it is a benefit for them.

Q: Any words of guidance and direction for a person new to Buddhism?

H.H. Karmapa: First examine the teachings carefully.  In a thorough way, see if it is logical, see if it is reasonable; see if it makes any sense at all.  When it does – then take things gradually.

Q: When one becomes enlightened, do they feel the suffering of the world's population, or does an understanding of knowing how to cope with it (also gained through becoming enlightened) mean one is able to overcome possible sorrow they may feel?

H.H. Karmapa: As a truly enlightened being there is no suffering, there is no feeling in a way.  It is not because they are numb – but they don’t feel it.  Why?   Because even the feeling of suffering itself is not real.  Suffering is just a concept or projection of mind – nothing more.  So when one is enlightened one understands that it is a concept.  When one is free of both gross and subtle concepts – there is no need to feel suffering.   Helping sentient beings is already effortless.  It’s natural – automatic.