I’m taking a day off from my usual work today, as it is a public holiday where I live and work. Wesak Day, also known as Vesak is the most significant day on the Buddhist calendar. It is observed across many Southeast Asian countries and in East Asia.
It commemorates the birth, enlightenment and passing of Siddhartha Gautama, the historical Buddha, all of which are believed to have occurred on the full moon day of the lunar month of Vesakha.
The origins of this observance trace back to ancient India, where early Buddhists held rituals and gatherings on full moon days to honor the Buddha’s teachings. On this day, temples are often beautifully decorated, and devotees engage in acts of generosity, prayer, and meditation.
I’m stepping back from the noise of the markets, a small act of mindfulness in honor of a day that reminds us to pause, reflect, and return to what truly matters. I will be back to my workstation tomorrow.