Why Buddha?

Inspired by a friend whose questions are most welcome.

Why Buddha?

My mother, with her bible and her disdain,
gripped my arm tightly.
"Why Buddha?" she demanded.
I was raised in her quaint home, with portraits of Jesus
and wooden crosses that only added to my discomfort.
She did her best to put the fear of God into me,
to teach me that I am nothing if I do not listen to the word of God.

According to God - I am nothing.


My neighbour, with her Qur'an and her spite,
held me up against a wall, while words of her prophet promised
despair, death, and war.
"Why Buddha?" she demanded.
Mohammed does not see those who turn from his grace,
and I am nothing without his sanctification.

According to Mohammed - I am nothing.

My friend, with his smile and his open palm,
sat next to me in my despair and spoke the words of the Buddha.
"Why Buddha?" I demanded.
It is not worship, nor fear that the Buddha requires, he told me.
The decision stands with you, for you are everything.

According to Buddha - I am everything.

Author's Note

This poem is not meant to defame or deny any other religion, and no offense is intended.

Reviews

[drivebypoet]

at least you found something...some never do...I am a sober alcoholic,I believe in a higher power also. 1st John chapter 4 verse 7 thru 21..Desiderata,you are a child of the universe,no less than the trees and stars,you have a right to be here
when a person is in trouble,sometime all they have is thee(you )

[Marshall Hanson]

I agree with Kerwin, very well written poem. Keep up the good work. I look forward to reading more of your work.

[Colleen]

Thank you for inspiring me, Kerwin :)

[Steve]

This is exceptionally well written.....It doesnt offend me at all. I think its facinating.