The possibility of being the last Dalai Lama doesn't trouble the man currently holding the position, as long as his authority is transferred to a democratically elected Tibetan government, a media conference heard Wednesday.
"When the day of our return comes, with a certain degree of freedom, then I will hand it over, all my legitimate authority to the local Tibetan government," said the Dalai Lama. "That local government, eventually, hopefully, (will be an) elected democratic government."
The spiritual and political leader of Tibetan Buddhism, the 14th Dalai Lama has led a government in exile in Dharamsala, India since fleeing Tibet in 1959 in the face of Chinese occupation.
Before the centuries old practice of appointing new Dalai Lamas can come to an end, China would have to recognize Tibetan Buddhism. Currently, it's illegal to possess images of the Dalai Lama in Tibet.
"If I become the last Dalai Lama than that is good," said the 1989 Nobel Peace Prize winner.
"Certainly I'm not the best Dalai Lama, but at least I'm not the worst," he quipped in his self-deprecating manner.
But the Dalai Lama stressed Wednesday that he's not seeking independence for his country, and that Tibet would benefit from remaining in China.
"I'm not seeking separation because of our own interest," he said of Tibet, whose people, he said, are eager to modernize while preserving their religious culture.
"For that (reason), if Tibet remains within the People's Republic of China we might get greater benefit."
Despite a half-century of occupation and Beijing's efforts to persuade Western leaders not to meet with him, the Dalai Lama is optimistic that the political climate of China is changing in Tibet's favour.
"A few decades ago, whenever someone raised human rights issues (with China), immediate rejection," he said. Last year, two delegations visited Beijing to discuss the Tibetan issue.
"These are signs of changing," said the 68-year-old monk. "If you look at Tibet locally, a very difficult (situation). But if you look from a wider perspective, than there's a real hope."
Further signs that Chinese citizens are become curious about Tibetan Buddhism are also encouraging, he said.
When asked by a local Chinese language media outlet what his message was for the people of China, the Dalai Lama paused and seemed to choose his words carefully.
"Our side always tries to make close contact with our Chinese brothers and sisters, because the solution of our problem is between (us and) our Chinese brothers and sisters."
Although the hour-long question and answer session with the media concentrated on delicate political issues, there was still opportunity for the Dalai Lama to charm his audience with his reflections on Canada.
"Wherever you find happiness, that's your home," he said through an interpreter, whose talents went largely unused as the Dalai Lama spoke in English for the most part.
"On the road I met some road workers. I opened my car window and (we) shake hands. Actually his hand not very clean, because he was a hard worker, but I really feel very happy."
The simple gesture of that worker, for the Dalai Lama, was for "no other reason but showing human friendship. I really appreciate it," he said. "So therefore, last few days, Canada seems my home."
The Dalai Lama continues his stay in Canada with daily teachings in Toronto before departing next week.