#(Buddha) 39 The Offerings

Buddha said, “If one lives Just for others’ happiness, Happy that one becomes As a matter of course.” “To offer others A heart one needs Not the riches Nor the social status.” Seven compassions For the offerings He had mentioned To be followed. 1.Offerings of the eye: Looking at others with affection and mercy not contempt or arrogance. 2. Offerings of expression: A bright smiling face, Not a grim or depressed one. 3. Offerings of words: Speaking gently so that Those who hear will feel happy. 4. Offering of attitude: Attitude of respect, not Looking down upon others. 5. Offering of the heart: Speaking and behaving warmly. 6. Offering of seat: Provide a seat to others with respect 7. Offering of abode: Invite others to one’s home. Have an attitude of sharing. These offerings, he followed, Also expressed his gratitude To others, who similarly followed The path he had found. Buddha and his disciples Were invited for meals By a blacksmith, one Of the low caste men. As he was very weak, Even to go for a walk, The worried disciples, Refused to go for meals. He said, ”It’s my intention, The blacksmith’s devotion, And sincerity must be taken, To accept his invitation.” “He should not feel, I’ve refused his meal As he’s from low caste, Which is not correct.” Buddha treated everyone, Low or high caste, as one, Rich or poor, as one, Friends or foes, as one. Despite his stomach disorder, He accepted the offer. As for the host’s devotion, He had shown appreciation. Eighty years old he was, Yet, he served the cause Of the suffering mass, Till his last moments. Buddhism found its roots In India, but its branches Spread all o’er the world, Though it’s 2500 years old.