It has been said, 'Know the truth, and the truth will set you free'. Is it true that Ram Bon Jon wasn't drinking or eating anything? Were people set free by believing it?
Did I do a disservice? In the light of the claims that this is a miracle-boy who is defying the laws of nature by eating and drinking nothing for months on end, the question, 'What did those who covered him with a curtain at night wish to hide from us?' has such an obvious answer that it is pretty clear that this myth was carried in large part by those who wanted to believe more than wanted to know the truth. So, what did the disservice? That which set the illusion up and carried it, or that which dissolved it?
We can ask more questions. Why did his minders wish us to believe he was eating and drinking nothing? Why did the boy participate? Have people really been helped by the likes of this? Are they hurt by the likes of me?
P.T Barnum has his place. Buddha has another. If P.T. Barnum attempts to seize Buddha's place, he must be stopped by those who know enough to serve in this way.
doesn't it impress you in the least that a child meditated at least twelve hours daily for ten months straight?
A little, but not hugely. Probably because I could have done it myself at that age. It's an uncommon talent, but not the mark of a Buddha.