Peace Grows from Within

1 CommentMonday • August 9, 2010 • by Beverly Britton

Image by Swami Stream via Flickr

Thailand. The ancient capital of Ayuthaya. Ruins that still crumble with the memories of a battle against the Burmese invasion. In late September of 2003 I toured these ruins and stopped, amazed, at this solitary Buddha head, detached from its steadfast body. The roots of the Banyan tree had grown protectively all around it, mothering its peaceful face. The invaders had viciously beheaded the revered statues, a profound statement of intimidation and ill regard, reminding me of the modern-day destruction of the Buddhas of Bamyan.

At the dusty site, chiseled stone bodies still remain in varying states of strength and withering away, necks exposed to the elements, and very few heads to be found, if I recall. The poetic justice of this preserved and tranquil Buddha is the message: History beat it down, but nature’s embrace grew around it. So the quiet face continues on, eternal blissful and supported.

“Peace Grows from Within” seemed such a fitting title for this art print on canvas. You can find many photos, snapshots, and personal stories about this particular Buddha from travelers all over the world. If you’ve seen it in person, I’d love to hear about it! So here’s AlignBetween’s interpretation…close up, high contrast, and growing within!