I am awake...

It is said that soon after his enlightenment the Buddha passed a man on the road who was struck by the Buddha's extraordinary radiance and peaceful presence. The man stopped and asked,

My friend, what are you?
Are you a celestial being or a god?

No..

said the Buddha

Well, then, are you some kind of magician or wizard?

again the Buddha answered;

No..

Are you a man?

No..

Well, my friend, then what are you?

the Buddha replied;

I am awake...



Gautama the Buddha