Tibet has produced two very different kinds of hero during the
past 60 years. Formerly, the main hero figure for many Tibetans
was H.H.D.L. – the Dalai Lama who won the Nobel peace prize and
who is currently in exile. Many Tibetans and followers of
Buddhism from around the world look upon the Dalai Lama as a
role model and knowledgeable advisor — two attributes of a
successful hero. However, in 2011 predominantly, a new type of
hero has emerged from Tibet; one of lesser official standing,
yet equal in courage. Throughout 2011, roughly 22 Tibetans set
fire to themselves with the purpose of drawing attention to
their nations’ predicament. The majority of these self-
immolators were young monks, nuns, and former monks. They were
desperate to get the world’s attention turned upon the
continuing suffering within their country, with little thought
to their own well-being. They have faced pain, death, and the
possibility of Chinese mistreatment — yet they stood up bravely
and heroically for their cause. Since the Chi