I am not a Buddhist, nor am I a Christian. I am not a Jainist, either. Yet, I ponder the universe in all its complexity. I do not seek ultimate answers, but mere reminders of my small place in this vast existence. Reminders of the importance of being a good person and the power of love and energy. That is how this White Tara found her way into my home 8 years ago. I visited her in the store on SE Hawthorne Street many times for the better part of a year before finally bringing her home. Sometimes she goes unnoticed for long stretches. But, then she'll catch my eye, like she did today with the snow squall swirling behind her, so I dust her off, and remember what she stands for...compassion, wisdom, and healing. And then I go on with my day.