Birth of Compassion

6/4/26

Today while cleaning the Lucky Bamboos, I had a feeling that it might be Guan Imm’s (Goddess of Compassion) birthday.

A check with the lunar calendar shows that today is the 19th Day of the 2nd Lunar Month, a day set aside to observe the birth of Guan Imm.

Years ago, a branch from a potted orchid I was shifting toppled a much cherished glass figurine of Guan Imm. The figurine landed face down and its head came off.

Upset at my carelessness, I scoured frantically for a replacement. But that representation of Guan Imm never appeared in shops or online platforms I patronised again.

As time passes, I make peace with my loss, and the desire to repair or replace the figurine wanes.

Guan Imm is known by various names depending on culture & language – Kannon, Chenrezig, Avalokithesvara to list a few.

But all names point towards Compassion – the ability to feel the pain or suffering of others without becoming attached or overwhelmed, in order to be of service.

“Idols have clay feet,” we’re warned. Perhaps my Guan Imm had to lose her head in order to help me understand that compassion is not dependent on perfection, nor sight, sound or smell. 🙏🪷🪔