As I mentioned when introducing myself to the readers of Jade Mountains I feel that Buddhism has been calling to me for a long time. When I was about 8 or 9 years old I was given a silver charm bracelet by my Aunt and Uncle. They usually gave good presents and I was especially pleased to receive this lovely piece of jewellery. There were four charms on it: a couple of coins, a little pagoda and a Buddha. I anticipated adding to it with charms given to me (if I asked nicely) at future Christmas’s and Birthdays.

When I started a regular meditation practice with the OBC I took the Buddha from the bracelet and wore it on a chain around my neck. Having it there was a helpful way of grounding myself during the day as I held it and perhaps recited a short Scripture.

Two years ago I could not find it. I searched high and low, turning first my bedroom, then the rest of the house upside-down; without success. I was upset. Over the months I kept my eye out for it and mourned my loss.

Last week, having finally decided to decorate our bedroom, Nigel and I moved a chest of drawers in order to start stripping the wallpaper. And yes, there, in the dust by the skirting board, was my little silver Buddha. I was so happy and relieved to see it again. I thought I would write and tell my Aunt (Uncle died many years ago) about the losing of it, the finding of it, and what it meant to me. Two weeks after finding my little silver Buddha I wore it to her funeral; she had died the same night that I found it.

My Aunt had reached the very great age of 94 so her death was not entirely unexpected. Finding the silver Buddha in that way and at that time now simply makes me feel thankful.