Reincarnation to Save All Living Beings

If the Tathagata is but an illusion, how can he save all beings?

All beings create all kinds of karma, each with their own chance to break free.

I gaze toward the ends of the earth, mourning how much of life has passed.

Where, in the years I have left, should I cherish each remaining moment?

Why was I born into this world? Where did I come from?

Let us sing together joyfully and walk the Great Way.

A thousand miles, ten thousand miles, yet nowhere can I be found.

Better to share a smile with me when we meet.

In straw sandals and a bamboo hat, I walked for a thousand years. Beneath the endless sky, I awakened in a single morning.

Between self and world, both forgotten, I am free and at ease.

Hey! Hey! Hey! The gods and Buddhas can leave me alone!

This novel and its characters are entirely fictional. Any resemblance to real people or events is purely coincidental. Do not imitate.