In Japan, Jizo Bodhisattva is often invoked if a mother has lost a child, because Jizo is gentle, unafraid and naturally protective, rising to dispel the enemy of ignorance and suffering when called upon.

Jizo is also the protector of those who wander, those who roam, all travelers, and that means all of us! Unassuming, holding his ringed staff and the Jewel of Liberation, Jizo is the archetype of our inner strength and humility, our ability to be gentle and protective of those who cannot protect themselves, or for that part of us that remains harmed and seeks nurturance.

With his bright red bandana and child-like face, we remember that we are all children set loose in a vast universe of love and support, and that watering this seed within ourselves naturally allows the flower to open to the rest of the world through our thoughts, words and deeds.

Jizo Bodhisattva holds the jewel that leads to our awakening.