4-22-96
Your death was seen
everywhere on Earth.
People were horrified by
your chosen path to martyrdom.
It was nearly impossible for Westerners
- especially Americans -
to comprehend such steadfast beliefs,
or your serene sacrifice.
You doused yourself with gasoline,
then lit a match, and sat - full lotus,
as you quietly burned to death
to demonstrate against your government.
The world was appalled by your courage!
Did you complete your journey
around the Wheel of Life,
and finally reach Nirvana?
In true Buddhist fashion
your act made you immortal,
and touched the hearts of millions -
yet, no one knows your name.