Underneath the Bodhi Tree

I had a dream one night, that I was walking through a forest, as a light spring breeze gently caressed my skin. I had no particular destination in mind. All I knew was that the noise of the so called civilized world had become unbearable to me, and what I had been seeking could not be found in a life of external distraction. I walked freely between the tall, lush trees of the forest. I was nowhere, and everywhere. As I continued to walk, I noticed one particular tree that was like no other.

I had never myself seen such a tree, but I somehow knew it was special. The sun seemed to shine ever more brightly as it set itself over the tree which illuminated it so splendidly that when I looked up I felt a wave of joy, peace and love wash over me as the very foundation of all the magic in the universe emanated from the tree. It called to me, and I followed as tears flowed down my face. What was this tree? Why did my heart feel as though it would burst out of my chest?

I followed the calling of the tree. The closer I got, the stronger the pull became, and as I reached it, I slowly extended my arm and towards its trunk and placed my hand upon it. The tree was not alive, it was life, eternal, unending. I sat beneath the tree and closed my eyes, and in that moment I realised that nothing existed but me, present and serene. No harm could ever come to me, I had found my place.

I asked, without thinking. “Who are you?” 

The reply was comforting and clear. “I am the Bodhi Tree, you have come to me for fulfillment and I give it to you now. For all of your troubles and burdens, I give you the gift of peace. No longer will you roam discontent and pained, now you are free, now you belong.”