By Jeanne Althouse
Theo says Buddha lives inside Bobcat Tule at the children’s zoo.
On Sunday afternoon the family strolls by the giant cat folded into a sun-warmed rock. Waiting, watching, his white cat fur, black nose, paws the size of pillows, leather pads shining up. Caged, he meditates.
The crowd passes; hands print his glass enclosure, babies sticky with candy, weary dry-skinned mothers, working men with dirty nails, black, brown, white, gloved, ringed, one four-fingered. His globe eyes stare out, glowing, thoughts flowing like water.
Enlightenment, says Theo.
Housecat for giants, comments Clare.
Their children ask: Who is Buddha? How can he fit?
Thank you Emily Clayton for great editing suggestions.
Wonderful imagery. “…giant cat folded into a sun-warmed rock…” And theme is very plain: A Buddha resides in the bobcat. And the closing line, from a curious child, wondering how a Buddha could fit into a beast. A Winner!
I agree with Bobby – really nice imagery, the tone and voice being almost meditational… A pleasurable read!