The Buddha taught us to take refuge in the Triple Gem--the Buddha, the Dhamma, and the Sangha. In taking refuge in the Triple Gem, one acknowledges that the world is really a place of danger and misery. The Buddhist realizes the impermanence of all experience and existence. He expresses confidence in the Buddha. He accepts that the only true refuge in this sea of suffering is the Triple Gem, offering the possibility of perfection and liberation.
Temple of the Tooth, Kandy, Sri Lanka