The Lotus, the Lamb, and the Lynx: A Journey of Self-Discovery

By W. Andersen and Al Mahmud

What if you had three immortal spirit animals to guide you toward enlightenment? Psyche, a young woman who rejects her destiny as the High Priestess of her village in Nepal, is banished with Lamb, Lotus, and Lynx - her soul companions who are more than they seem. Together, they embark on a journey to the sacred Bodhi Tree, where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment. But their quest is not easy.

They travel through a land where ancient myths and legends come to life, full of awe-inspiring wonders and perilous dangers. Along the way, they face many challenges and miracles, and they encounter Baal, a mysterious and charismatic man who claims to know the truth about their allies and their impact on enlightenment. But can they trust him?

And what is the secret that their companions are hiding? Will Psyche and her spirit animals reach the Bodhi Tree and attain enlightenment? Or will they fall prey to the dark forces that lurk in their shadows? Find out in this captivating story that blends the ancient wisdom of Buddhism with shamanism. A story that reveals the eternal forces of awakening we all have inside.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Inner Allies Academy
• Release date: Aug 15, 2023
• ISBN: 879748931X

Book preview

Love

When you are awake, you sacrifice your life. When you are asleep, you sacrifice yourself. One will make you love life. The other will make you suffer.

— W. Andersen

Chapter 1

Stuck

This is the story of Psyche and her journey to create a home for Lamb, Lotus, and Lynx. She used to live in a village in today’s Nepal, but when her father demanded that she become the next high priestess, she refused, which made her family exile her.

Now, Psyche and her companions are travelling to the Bodhi Tree, as Gautama Buddha did before her, to achieve enlightenment. Unknown to her she is the only human in thousands of years to have three allies by her side. Uncovering why this is so and their true identity is her destiny in this life.

We come across her and her companions as they are stuck crossing their first river.

Where is the ferryman? Psyche asked no one in particular. A soft moan followed her words, and then her eyes shifted from the peaceful flow of the river to the warm sensation of Lamb lying in her lap.

He searched the horizon, and as he squinted against the glare of the sun, he had to accept that no one was coming to their rescue. He sniffed, trying to hold back the tears. I feel like we are the last ones left in the entire world. When Psyche didn’t respond to his crying, he turned to Blue Lotus, who sat with its roots in the calm water, enjoying the sunlight. Can I have a leaf?

Of course you can, if you give me some of your delicious droppings in return. I am too busy to move, it said with a short, cheerful laugh. One of these days, I will soak up the entire sun.

You are so gifted, Lotus. I believe you can accomplish anything you set your mind to, Lamb answered. I sure wished I was as clever as you.

Lynx was lying nearby, her soft fur illuminated by the sun. She sighed from exhaustion and without looking at either of them she said, Blue, don't be ridiculous. You can't soak up the sun.

I meant it as a metaphor, Blue Lotus snapped, something I do not expect you to understand. I have already seen it happen in my mind. Besides, you are just envious of my brilliant power of imagination. In contrast, you hunt, kill, and then hide in the shade all day. What kind of existence is that?

At least I live in the real world and not in a fantasy, Lynx muttered, and lifted her head just enough so she could get a glimpse of Blue Lotus.

Blue Lotus scoffed. The real world, you say? I am much too busy conversing with Psyche to lower my thoughts to chit-chat about the mundane world. The real world? Please!

Listen to your words, Blue. You are not making any sense.

Don’t you dare belittle my only friend, Lamb said and tried to pierce Lynx's neck with his gaze, and I told you, its name is not Blue.

Lynx turned to Lamb and revealed her teeth. This made Lamb recoil, but he soon regained his composure. Oh, you would like, that wouldn’t you, he said, shaking his head and looking up at Psyche for support. She will never allow it, so back off, you flesh-eating monster.

All I want from you and Blue Lotus, Lynx said with a sigh, is that you concentrate on things that matter. Things like food, shelter and getting to the Big Tree.

Lamb stuffed his mouth full of leaves and mumbled, Look, I’m very concerned about my food. I am eating.

Lotus’ colour is blue, so there is that, Lynx said, before trying to change the subject. Why do you eat so many leaves from Blue, anyway? You didn’t when we lived in the village? What is wrong?

That is none of your business, he quivered. All you need to know is that it is your fault.

Lynx moaned.

It is your fault, Lamb cried, and buried his head deeper beneath Psyche’s legs. You’re the reason I am scared, and they calm me down.

Psyche, please, Lynx said. You can’t let this go on? But Psyche was not paying attention, so Lynx stood up and entered the forest.

A black bull on the other shore had caught Psyche's attention. It somehow seemed otherworldly, she thought, or was it the sunlight that made it shine?

After a while, her absent mind caught Lamb’s attention. What are you looking at?

His words broke off her inner conversation, and she soon brushed the sight off as fantasy. Instead, she turned to watch Lotus offer Lamb another leaf.

Crack. The sound echoed off the water, sharp like a needle, as it moved through her body.

But then she caught sight of Lynx walking through the tall grass. Her initial fear subsided and gave way to a moment of gratitude.

Let me help you, Psyche said and untangled herself from Lamb as Lynx released the bird from her jaws. Thank you, dear. I can always count on you. You know that, right?

I do, the cat said in her deep, soft voice and lowered her head. We are in this together.

Come here. I want to caress you. The big cat purred from her gentle touch, which made Psyche relax. Soon everybody was calm. Gone were their agitations, at least for a while, as Psyche continued to nuzzle Lynx’s soft, golden fur.

Eventually, the shadows engulfed them all as the sun settled beyond the forest on the other side of the water. It would be dark soon, so Psyche got to her feet, stretched her back, and looked one last time for the bull. If only I could get a confirmation that I am not making it up. But the bull was nowhere to be seen.

She shook her head. Lamb, let’s go to sleep, but he was already sleeping, leaning against Blue Lotus’ flower pot.

That night Psyche dreamt of a black bull carrying them across the water one at a time. When she awoke as the sunlight reached her the following day, she still had the vivid image of the bull in her mind. Why did it have such an air of calm and serenity? I envy that, she muttered to herself before yawning so loud that Lamb woke up.

Who did what? Lamb said and rubbed his eyes. But Psyche ignored him.

Are we so impoverished and soulless that even a bull can be said to be closer to Buddha nature than us? She sighed and looked down. Then she raised her head and looked across the water, hoping to get another glimpse of the majestic being.

I gather you are asking me? Blue Lotus laughed. That's an interesting philosophical question. So thank you for that.

But before it could begin its deliberations, a bright light flashed next to them, and a clear, beautiful voice spoke, Greetings, my dear friends. I am Baal. Welcome. The Lord of these parts.

Chapter 2

Baal

Who are you? Psyche said and scrambled backwards at the sight of the glowing figure. What do you want from me? But the strange being said nothing. Instead, he stretched his arms and made tiny, glistening stars, like those on the water's surface, fall from his white sleeves.

Psyche, still moving, stumbled over a branch. She covered her head with one hand and scurried backwards, looking like a beetle on its back, trying to find a foothold in the air.

I come in peace, he said in a calm voice as he remained motionless.

She stopped and observed the tall figure waiting for him to make the first move.

But Baal didn’t move. He continued to talk in the same harmonious tone of voice as before. Take your time, Psyche. Please regain your bearings. We have time.

Psyche got on her feet but was still agitated.

Why does he have white-gold glowing skin and purple eyes? Lamb whispered to Blue Lotus.

Shh, I think he can hear you, was the muffled reply, so Lamb turned away, trying to become invisible. Meanwhile, Lynx had been staring at Baal for the entire time he had been present.

Baal looked around at them and continued to smile despite the commotion and fear he had caused. Eventually, Psyche understood all he wanted was for them to settle down again.

But she wasn’t ready for that, so instead, she said, You scared me, and how do you know my name?

I overheard your conversation with your magnificent companions.

She continued to squint at him.

They are a wonderful gift to you and this world. I had to visit you. Then Baal threw his arms up in the air so more light showered the surrounding air.

Have you been watching me? Psyche looked at the light spectacle and then turned to dust off her red-brown long-sleeved dress.

Yes, Baal chuckled and looked across the river.

Why?

You summoned me.

No, I didn’t. When? I asked for a ferryman, not…. Then her eyes brightened. Are you him?

These words made Lamb move closer, and he blinked in disbelief at the towering figure. Are you the one who shall row us across? Are you the ferryman? Please say that you are. Please.

Baal smiled at Lamb, but instead of answering, he turned instead to Psyche. Why are you here?

We are waiting for the ferryman, Lamb repeated, and tried to get Baal’s attention.

A ferryman? May I ask what for?

To get across, of course. Psyche shook her head and signalled to Lamb with her hands to keep quiet. Are you the ferryman we seek, or are you not? She gave Baal an impatient look and pointed to the other shore.

Why do you want a ferryman?

Are you him or not! Psyche demanded.

Baal turned to Blue Lotus standing next to a fuming Psyche. Such delicate flowers, you have.

Thank you. They are a testament to beauty, aren’t they?

This remark made Lynx groan.

Don’t be stupid, Blue Lotus exclaimed. He is an archangel who has come from the heavens to assist us. Therefore, it would suit us to answer him as truthfully as possible. He is testing us, can’t you see?

Baal smiled. Your flowers are indeed a testament to the beauty of all the living.

Now, look here, Psyche demanded, and moved closer to Baal. I am on my way to the Big Tree. She pointed to the other shore and raised her voice. I need to cross this river. Today!

Ah, Baal answered, and made an exaggerated theatrical bow. You need to cross the river, and you believe I will sail you across?

Why do you repeat everything I say? Psyche put her hands on her hips. Are you here to mock me?

Dearest me, Lamb sputtered and began coughing. Please excuse us. The long journey from our village has exhausted us.

I am not here to mock anybody. I am curious to know why you want to cross this river.

If you must know, I am going to the sacred tree where Buddha attained enlightenment. I want to experience what he has experienced. It is my calling.

I was expecting you to say that, Baal replied.

Then why did you ask me?

Watch this. Blue Lotus told Lamb. Here comes the test.

The Bodhi tree seems to be where humans go these days when they seek enlightenment. Why? I don’t know.

Psyche shook her head in confusion. Isn’t it obvious?

Allow me, Blue Lotus insisted in its most commanding voice. The way of the Buddha is to attain the deepest insights of Being. Everybody knows that. Now we are here on this critical mission. Are you willing to help us or not?

Yes, please help us, Lamb begged, then beamed at Baal. We’re on a critical mission, you know… like Lotus just said.

Baal gave each of them a serene smile. And what does this tree have to do with the Buddha’s teachings?

The tree has everything to do with the Buddha's realisations, Blue Lotus snapped. What a pointless question?

What do you think? Baal looked at Lamb.

Me? Lamb stuttered and then looked up at Baal with his black, glistening eyes.

Yes, Baal beamed at Lamb. I want to hear your opinion, too.

This made Lamb so proud that he puffed himself up. Soon, he looked like a woolly toad.

No matter what you do, you cannot look the part of a ram, Lynx confirmed. You are a lamb; to become a ram, you must grow into one.

Don’t mock me. One day, I will become a beautiful and fearless ram. You wait and see.

Then you better get on with it. Talking about it will get you nowhere.

I believe, Lamb boasted, that it's our destiny to reach the tree. There we will do great things.

Lynx moaned.

Thank you, Baal answered, and took a step toward Psyche. She just stared at him. I can indeed help you get across to the other shore.

You can? Why didn’t you say so? Her demeanour changed at once. She scratched the top of her head, and her face broke into a smile. This is the best news I have heard since we left. Thank you. I will find a way to repay you.

So you are the ferryman, Lamb exclaimed. How wonderful! Then he jumped up and down. What a beautiful day this turned out to be. I knew it.

No, Baal declared.

Now what? Psyche wiped her eyebrows and glared into Baal’s purple eyes with a piercing look. What do you mean no? You just said yes. As she kept staring, she sensed something resonating from somewhere beyond this world.

But you just said you were, Lamb muttered. The mood in all of them changed once again.

I am not a ferryman, but yes, I will help you get to the other shore.

You confuse me. Psyche dried her forehead. Make up your mind, will you?

Baal stared straight at Psyche. "I am here to help you get across. But at the same time, I am showing you that you must become more specific in your thinking and that you must talk with deliberation.

Psyche’s face lit up, ignoring the last part of his words. She turned to her allies. That’s great news, isn’t it?

It is indeed, Blue Lotus concluded. But what will his pay be, I wonder? What are your thoughts on this, Lamb? But Lamb was too busy jumping up and down to answer. So Lotus gazed at Lynx, who had now covered her eyes with her huge paws. No one is in their right mind but me, it muttered. But that's not different from any other day, is it?

Psyche stared at Baal before asking in an agitated voice. Now what? What do I need to do?

Before I help you. Baal raised his arms to get her attention. Please understand that the shore you need is not the one you seek.

Here it comes, Blue Lotus taunted, trying to sound as clever as possible. I told you, didn’t I?

What are you talking about? Psyche snapped and turned to Baal. Where can I find the right shore, then? Is it further along my journey, or am I going in the wrong direction?

There are no right or wrong directions in life, Psyche. There is only how it unfolds and how you experience it and pay attention to it. Your travel always leads you to where you need to go, and it’s your job to become more competent in living your life. You may believe you are going places, but travelling must also lead you inwards. If you only travel in the outer world, you will go nowhere because you will have no idea where you have been, where you are, or where you are headed.

Inwards, outwards. Psyche frowned and then shook her head to dismiss him. No. I need to get to that shore there. That’s what I need. There! She exclaimed. I must sit at the Big Tree. I am not here to chase some inner phantom.

Why do you think sitting under that tree will benefit you?

Because Buddha attained enlightenment doing so. We talked about this already.

What good do you think his supposed accomplishments of enlightenment would do you?

Supposed? Blue Lotus snapped. I most strongly object. What an ignorant thing to say.

All I am saying, Psyche, is that you should examine your actual needs before you rush into walking in the footsteps of others.

Others? Buddha was no ordinary human, Blue Lotus retorted.

Please, let me speak, Blue, Psyche insisted and turned to Baal. What do you mean by my actual needs?

What you seek is inside you. Examine your actual needs, and you discover you don’t need to go to the tree.

What nonsense is this? Blue Lotus demanded. Now, you listen, Baal. You may be an angel or even an archangel, for all I care, but you can’t just show up and tell Psyche not to go to the Tree. Besides, what is this nonsense? Of course, Buddha sat under the sacred tree, and, of course, he attained enlightenment.

When Baal didn’t answer, Blue Lotus continued.

And for your information, Mister Archangel, it was a sacred Fig Tree no less. And what are you playing at with your constant smiling? Our quest is serious business. We are on a spiritual quest, no less.

Baal continued to smile. Yes, my dear. It appears so.

So can you help us cross, or do we have to find another deity who can? This is a straightforward question.