Tian Tan Buddha
Serene in Stature
Serene majesty rests atop
lotus flower throne.
His bronze elegance
adorns the Lantau sky.
Facing North
a mountain peak
on earthly ground
the temple of heaven.
Right hand raised
affliction begone!
Left hand rest
a gesture of giving.
Serene in stature
overseer of peace
worshipped by mortals
and immortals bearing fruit.
A massive stone symbol
human of spirit
energy of life
they offer praise.
Climbing step after step
warmed by his smile
captivated by his eyes
humbled by his presence.
A hypnotic fog
emanates around him
as visitors encircle
and offer prayers.
Hours entranced
in a spiritual kinship
with him, tranquility
occupies my spirit.
During my second visit to Hong Kong in March 2008 I visited Lantau Island which is home to Tian Tan Buddha, Po Lin Monastery and Wisdom Path. It was a day of spiritual cleansing and enlightenment for me. Walking up those 360 steps to be up close to Tian Tan who is made of Bronze and is 112 feet tall atop Lantau Peak was nothing short of Magnificent. Lantau Island is considered sacred in Hong Kong to where the government has banned non essential vehicles on the island.
This trip, my second to Hong Kong, came about as a poetry prize winner sponsored by Cathay Pacific airlines. They gave me a roundtrip ticket. It was my trip of a lifetime and I penned this poem after visiting Tian Tan Buddha. If you ever get a chance to visit Hong Kong, this is a MUST experience.
Thanks for reading.
