Dear Bodhisatva,
I don't suppose you remember me since you were so very young when we met. It was I who took you to the monastery on the day of the terrible tragedy. I won't speak of it anymore as I'm sure it's quite upsetting to you. Ajahn Ananda has given me your address so that I could write to you.
It has been some years since I visited that lovely land you come from. I was glad to see the forests were still cool and inviting and the fields quite green and productive. The little city by the port, however has grown into something of a big city now! Many more ships were in the harbor and the din of the trains coming and going was constant and a little exciting. But I would not like to have to stay there for very long. The path to the monastery, however, remains quiet and is still a long enough walk to keep the city's reach from disturbing the peace that is found there.
It was very good to visit with my old friend again and catch up on so much news. Although, in the brief time I was there our conversation was so much concerned with the business of our monasteries and hearing of your adventures that the Venerable Ajahn quite neglected to tell me how your brother has fared. Please do greet him for me the next time you see him.
Your Friend,
Bikkhu Sariputra
Brother? I don't have a brother. At least I don't think so. I wrote back to the Bikkhu immediately!
Dear Bikkhu Sariputra,
I am so happy to hear that you are well and traveling some. Personally I feel that travel is one of the finest things one may do to broaden one's view of the world and increase one's understanding of it. But we shall discuss that more at another time as I write to you in some haste.
Your letter contained something confusing to me. I was actually quite startled when you inquired after my brother. To my knowledge I have no siblings! Should you find the time I greatly wish to hear what you meant and perhaps clear up this misunderstanding.
Warmly,
Bodhisatva Paperclip
