Kisa Gotami and the Mustard Seed*

A long time ago a very young mother

Named Kisa Gotami gave birth to a son—

A child who was the light of her life.

The mother’s love was second to none.

Not long after her son was born,

The poor child grew sick and died.

“Who can bring my son back to life?

Have pity!” Kisa Gotami cried.

The villagers knew that there was nothing

They could do to help and suggested

That she seek out the help of the Buddha.

“He can do wonders,” they attested.

She found the Buddha and beseeched his help.

“My only son has died,” she wailed.

“Can you bring him back to life.

Everything I have tried has failed.”

The Buddha calmly said, “I will help you.”

The poor woman waited with bated breath.

“But first you must find for me

A family that’s never been touched by death.

“When you finally encounter that home,

Tell the family there’s something you need—

Just one thing to take to the Buddha—

And that’s a single mustard seed.”

With great excitement the mother ran

From house to house—to every abode.

But death had visited every family.

On her face, great disappointment showed.

After an unsuccessful search,

The young mother came to realize

That everything born had to die;

Everything had to have its demise.

She understood the law of impermanence

And that her suffering was not unique.

She now saw life from a new perspective;

Her eyes were open, so to speak.

Kisa Gotami returned to the Buddha

And started to follow his teachings--the Way,

Or Noble Path to Enlightenment,

Which still guides many seekers today.

(8-3-14) By Bob B

*An old story retold here in verse