wesak

a fiction - a contemplation

Two novice monks named Chi and Wai were performing their daily chores in Lord Buddha's garden. They picked all of the brown leaves, collected all of the wilted flowers to ensure that their skills as self-acclaimed botanists were not put to waste.

Chi thought to himself that in 10 years time he would master every sutra and teaching in Buddhism. He can then acquire the status of an Honoured Teacher and spread the dharma to all who crosses his path. He will be the next World Honored One. He smiled at the thought of his success because Buddhism was his passion.

In the meantime Wai was waiting for the right time to find flaws in the teachings of Lord Buddha. Perhaps planning for a revolution because he was sick and tired of the five precepts, the four noble truths and the meditations. Wai wanted freedom; his sense of freedom. He said that in order to live in this world, one has to participate in it. Live life to the fullest. So he was quietly waiting; in silence he was collecting enough ammunition to fire back. Wai was never been happy with anything in his life.

While they were busy focusing on their 10-year-plan, they didn't realise that Lord Buddha and another guest were in the garden for an evening walk. Immediately they dropped all at hand and rushed to the World Honored One to prostrate before him.

Chi
Master, how pretty a sight to see you during sun set.

Wai
Master, I have none to offer you except for my humble service.

Lord Buddha
Now the two of you. Please rise. I ask not to be prostrated to. I ask for no words of praise nor do I seek humbleness in service. I ask for nothing.

Chi
Oh! Master. But you must know we volunteer our hearts and souls to you because your teachings are of the truth and of supreme order. We honour no one except for you.

Wai
I am born of no parents. You are like a dear father to me. I wish to only follow your footsteps.

Lord Buddha
Please don't follow because I do not lead. My teachings are of the truth only as far as you test them. I am merely a signpost. You decide on walking the journey. Don't worship or destroy the signpost. It is useless.

With that Lord Buddha and his guest left the garden.

Guest
It seems it will take a long time for mankind to learn.

Lord Buddha
That is why we come back. When I go, it is you who may shed some light.

Guest
But my dear friend. When my time comes, men will be more lost. I am afraid the ground will be red.

Lord Buddha
We can only show them where the moon is and how to build a raft. We can't bring the moon to them and build them rafts for crossing rivers. I am sure there will be some who understand. Very few but there will be.

Guest
There is still hope. In darkness, when one is calm one can see clearer than with lights turned-on.

Lord Buddha
Silent

Guest
Silent