Laughing Buddha-Budai-Hotei

Fat Buddha, as he is known in the US, is usually depicted with a large belly carrying a sack. In this sack are his few possessions and he is content this way, even prosperous. Well mannered and loving, Budai is a man of good fortune and happiness.

My Budai was given to me from my sister and I can't help but smile every time I see him. I think he was carrying something at in his left hand at some point because there is an empty hole now. I want to pour a drink in it sometimes. He looks like he would drink a beer. Maybe I will someday if he behaves.

Budai is my companion around these parts. He compliments my feelings of being a foreigner by giving me purpose. We explore the staleness of the suburb together.