Source: The New York Times

On June 10, 2000, The New York Times reported that the 41st Sakya Trizin, supreme head of one of Tibetan Buddhism's four traditions, has embarked on a three-month teaching visit to the United States and Canada. The Sakya Trizin is second only to the Dalai Lama in importance to the Tibetan people and this is the first time in a decade that Trizin has visited the United States. He is making this trip to meet and encourage people involved in Sakya Buddhist practice. Asked about how one should begin a serious study of Buddhism, Trizin responded: "So the first important thing is to establish the relationship between teacher and disciples. The student should examine the teacher, the teacher should examine the student. Once they are satisfied with each other, then you establish the link." Trizin also commented on America's religious pluralism: "I think America is a great country, where all the people -- different religions, different cultures -- can find a home. And so it is a very good thing."