The Laughing Buddha’s Paradox

With belly round and smile so wide,
The Laughing Buddha sits aside.
His joy, a riddle to the mind,
A koan for all of humankind.

In suffering, he finds his mirth,
In emptiness, discovers worth.
His laughter echoes through the void,
Where ego’s illusions are destroyed.

He carries the world upon his back,
Yet dances light without a lack.
In poverty, he knows true wealth,
In silence, speaks volumes of health.

The more he gives, the more he gains,
His happiness breaks sorrow’s chains.
In letting go, he holds it all,
In being small, he stands so tall.

Enlightenment, a cosmic jest,
In failure, he has passed the test.
The path to wisdom, paved with glee,
In bondage, he has set us free.

So laugh along, don’t seek to know,
The paradox will help you grow.
For in the Buddha’s mirthful eyes,
The truth and folly harmonize.