Every day, we learn something new about our culture. In our minds, yesterday was Mother's Day: a time for flowers, cards, meals, and gifts to thank mom for all of her love and support. But, on our little island, yesterday was also the day set aside to mark the birthday of Buddha.
In the exact same spot used to celebrate the Franklin Graham Festival and glorify HIS name last fall, thousands of folks gathered to seek a different kind of "peace" in the midst of turbulent times.
Before giving a speech, our president performed the “bathing Buddha” ritual. Holding a wooden ladle, he poured water over a small statue of the Buddha three times while reciting: “May I eliminate all evil thoughts” on the first wash, “May I cultivate good deeds” on the second, and “May I help save all living beings” on the third. (Bathing a statue of Buddha symbolizes a fresh start in life and the care given to newborn babies.)
As mothers demonstrated for their children how to perform this ritual, we were reminded of the urgent need we have to share the true source of real peace, the Prince of Peace. He is the only One that can truly give a fresh start in life, both now and for eternity.
We celebrated Mother's Day by giving our mom flowers, a meal, and a gift. We want this small Oriental lamp to daily remind all of us of the desperate need to continously shine HIS light into the darkness.
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