January 1, 20201
Rub your Buddha’s Belly – I Promise it’s Good Luck
By Jordyn Axelrod
Cover Art by Jordyn Axelrod
Next to my bed sits a small silver Buddha1 that my dad gave to me before college. He told me to bring it with me, and to keep it safe and close by – that it would send me positive vibrations as I embarked on a brand new chapter of my life in Ann Arbor.
Navigating college as a freshman, in an environment where everything is constantly changing, has not been easy. Managing online classes, mixed with unexpected weeks of quarantine and isolation, has made for a challenging semester. There is always a cloud of unknown looming over me. Yet, amidst all of the uncertainty, one thing has stayed constant: my Buddha.
Even when it feels like the world is about to crumble, my Buddha peacefully sits criss cross on my nightstand with two thumbs up and a huge happy smile. He is a symbol of hope- a small reminder for me that it is all going to be okay.
As a huge believer in karma, energy, and the universe, I believe in the power of the Buddha. Legend has it that if one rubs a Buddha’s belly, they will be brought good luck, happiness and prosperity. During late-night study sessions and covid-friendly hangouts, my friends and I pass him around the room… maybe a little bit too much. Perhaps it’s silly, or maybe it’s part of the reason that despite all of the madness of this unpredictable year, I’ve had such a special college experience and fallen in love with the University of Michigan.
It is crucial that we all put our faith into simple rituals or hobbies that take the edge off and make us feel lighter in stressful times. Whatever it may be for you–listening to your pump-up song in the morning to get your day started on the right note, meditating, or watching your guilty pleasure rom-com – don’t forget to do it. Rub your Buddha’s belly… I promise it’s good luck.
1The term Buddha or Laughing Buddha may also be referred to as Budia, Budai Luohan or Hotei. Budai is not only incorporated in Buddhism, but in other religions as well such as Taoism and Shintoism.