Breakfast With Buddha

Otto and Rinpoche join a game of miniature golf at the Boathouse restaurant with Matthew and Eveline Fritton, a couple who are both university professors. Despite Otto’s physical discomfort and hunger, Rinpoche is eager to play. The encounter with the Frittons is marked by a mixture of curiosity and skepticism, particularly from Matthew, who questions Rinpoche’s spiritual beliefs and practices. The atmosphere is somewhat tense, and Matthew uses defensive humor, possibly to mask discomfort or fear.

Surprisingly, Rinpoche demonstrates unexpected skill at golf, winning the game against Matthew. Following the game, Matthew anticipates a complex spiritual question (koan) from Rinpoche as part of their bet. However, Rinpoche poses a simple, reflective question about why his hand doesn’t form a circle despite his intention, highlighting the difference between thought and action. Despite Matthew’s initial competitiveness, the game concludes on a friendly note: Rinpoche invites the Frittons to join them for dinner, although they decline due to prior commitments.

At the Boathouse Restaurant, Otto indulges in a feast, savoring a steak after his period of fasting, while Rinpoche enjoys a simpler meal of whitefish. The meal leads to a reflective conversation. Rinpoche uses a flower petal under a cup as a