[CarrieSexy]

I've always had a great love and interest in folklore and there are indeed many truths buried within those tales. I can't speak for Asian folk tales (perhaps they contain traces of Buddhist influence), merely for those of European origin of which I've read many.

A common theme is the struggle between darkness and light, usually against overwhelming odds. They can be entertaining and inspiring but I've never found a common "essence" between them and Buddha Dharma. The 'happy ever after' is the triumph of light over darkness, not the freedom of unbinding.

The path Buddha laid out is quite unlike anything anyone else has at their disposal; whether theists of one kind or another or materialists of whatever hue. It is just not known or comprehended my the majority. I don't say this in order to appear arrogant or self-satisfied, merely to express my gratitude to the unique teachings of the Buddha.