#069 - Self-immolation June 11, 1963
Vietnamese Buddhist monk, Thich Quang Duc -
A monk dies and is quite surprised to find himself at the pearly gates. He says to God, "What is all that screaming I hear?" God says, "Those are the evil ones being tortured for sinning." The monk asks, "Aren’t you going to do anything to ease their suffering?" "No" says God. The monk is perplexed but accepts this and asks, "when will their suffering be enough so that they can join us here?" God says, "No you don't understand they will be there for eternity, we shall live here in paradise." The monks Jaw drops, "if my brothers and sisters are suffering down there and I am here it won't feel like much of a paradise, I would prefer to go down there and help comfort those poor souls." "But you will be burned by the terrible heat and besides I have invited you here to live with me, do you dare reject my gift,” says God. "Begging your pardon God, thank you for your gracious offer" the monk says, "but I must decline. I have lived my whole life serving others out of compassion and wish to continue doing so if you don't mind. Please send me to Hell where I can comfort my brothers and sisters, that is if I have a choice." "This is an unusual request,” ponders God, “but I will grant it if you wish."
The monk suddenly finds him self in hell. The heat is tremendous but he remains calm just like he did when he was alive on earth. (Jim "sluk" D'Elia)