The Affectionate Mother
The Affectionate Mother In the Buddhist Jataka story — Sonadanda, the Bodhisatta sings the virtues of a mother in the following strain: Kind, Pitiful, our refuge she that fed us at her breast. A mother is the way to heaven, and thee she loveth best. She nursed and fostered us with care; graced with good gifts is she, A mother is the way to heaven, and best she loveth thee. Craving a child in prayer she kneels each holy shrine before. The changing season closely scans and studies astral lore. Pregnant in course of time she feels her tender longings grow, And soon the unconscious babe begins a loving friend to know. Her treasure for a year or less she guards with utmost care, Then brings it forth and from that day a mother's name will bear. With milky breast and lullaby she soothes the fretting child, Wrapped in his comforter's warm arms his woes are soon beguiled. Watching o'er him, poo...