The pink lotus  symbolizes the purity and wonder of our awakened Buddha nature. Buddha simply means "One Who is Awakened."  Shakyamuni Buddha  is the most famous awakened person.  There have been many buddhas before him, and there have been many  buddhas after him.  Everyone has the potential to become a buddha, it is only a matter of waiting for th right time.  Tolerance is an aspect of patience that helps us keep calm when we are faced with difficult circumstances.  Practicing patience help us maintain peace of mind and to live a joyful life.  This painting depicts the Buddha in the famous "Calling Earth to Witness" posture.  This pose recalls the Buddha's connection to the earth in his struggles on the road to enlightenment.   (3/13/10)