Seeking Peace

Decade finds Big Buddha to apologize for Gold Strike 17.

Nam-myoho-renge-kyo

Decade could hear the rhythmic chants within the Buddhist monastery. “Monastery” was a nice word for what was a hole-in-the-wall Buddhist congregation in mid-town Memphis.

Still, Decade set aside any prejudice. He was here to provide a whole-hearted apology.

The room he entered was casually lit with candles that provided a comforting ambience. Most of the Buddhist practitioners were smaller, Asian Americans, but their leader sitting in the front of the room was much different.

The leader of this group was a large, girthy, authentic Tibetan monk.

Big Buddha.

Decade felt awful for what happened at Gold Strike 17; even though Decade had saved Big Buddha from an unwarranted beatdown by Awoke, he had lost control over his “other side” and delivered an unwarranted beatdown upon big Buddha of his own.

The Canadian wrestler wasn’t sure if he should just leave or follow through with what he knew was right: an apology.

Nam-myoho-renge-kyo

Unsure what to do, Decade sat down with the rest of the group and began to chant the comforting words. He felt some sort of relief, atonement, and peace wash over himself. He never considered himself spiritual, but under the circumstances he couldn’t help it.

A bell rang solemnly, and after a few moments Big Buddha spoke.

“Thank you everyone. I look forward to continuing tomorrow,” announced the warm voice of Big Buddha while keeping his eyes closed.

Most of the congregation stood up and amicably went about gathering their belongings to leave, but Decade remained in his spot. Big Buddha continued to sit in the front of the room silently.

Decade didn’t know if Big Buddha was aware of him, so he got ready to speak.

“Mr. Big-”

“Mr. Decade, thank you for joining us today,” Big Buddha said warmly without ever opening his eyes.

A moment of silence passed before Decade decided to be earnest and apologize.

“What happened at Gold Strike 17…”

The Tibetan monk kept his eyes closed and held up a hand with a palm facing Decade.

“Mr. Decade. Only through lies, must we realize the truth. You are haunted by what you must control… so join me. Let us face your enemy together, and then will you be free.”

A warm rush of relief flushed through Decade, and he realized he had met someone who wouldn’t hate him for what he truly was.