In January 2025, a miracle unfolded in the Pacific Palisades: the cliffside mansion of Hollywood legend Tom Hanks emerged unscathed from a fierce wildfire, utterly untouched by the flames. Many who witnessed the destruction were moved to exclaim: “This must be divine protection.”
A raging inferno devours a prestigious neighborhood
This affluent area, home to numerous celebrities, has multi-million-dollar estates perched on dramatic cliffs. Yet when nature’s fury was unleashed, even the most secure and lavish properties turned to ashes within moments. Despite the efforts of firefighters and aerial support, human strength paled compared to the power of the blaze.
Hanks’ home stands alone — a beacon amid ashes
Amid the ruins, one home stood tall and pristine: the US$26 million estate that Tom Hanks and his wife Rita Wilson purchased in 2010. Spanning over 14,000 square feet, the residence boasts a breathtaking view and holds cherished family memories — it is where their sons Chet and Truman were raised.
While neighboring homes were reduced to rubble, the Hanks’ estate remained miraculously intact, not even visibly scorched — the contrast stunned observers. Social media and news outlets buzzed with wonder. Some called it “a Noah’s Ark in the firestorm,” while others joked: “Even the god of fire couldn’t bear to harm Tom Hanks’ home — he’s too good a man.”
A simple, moving acknowledgment of grace
In the aftermath, Tom Hanks made a brief but heartfelt post: “Thank God.” Though his words were few, they radiated profound gratitude and reverence. Rather than dwelling on material fortune, Hanks pointed to something greater — faith, humility, and thankfulness — reflecting his well-known modesty and integrity. Once again, he reminded the world why many call him “the last good man in Hollywood.”
Fame meets virtue: An exemplary life
Tom Hanks has long been known not just for his acting excellence — seen in classics like Forrest Gump, Saving Private Ryan, and Cast Away — but also for the positive image of his stability and kindness in character. He is one of the rare public figures who, even under fame’s spotlight, has remained free of scandal and full of decency. His home’s survival amid devastation seems not just coincidental — for some, it feels like a symbol of the adage: “Good begets good.” Why was his house spared when others were not? This mystery brings to mind a story, one from the life of the Buddha.
The bird who fought fire — courage beyond measure
In Buddhist scriptures, there is a parable about one of the Buddha’s previous lives, when he was just a small bird.
One day, while walking with his disciples, the Buddha came upon a forest with fire. He calmly led his disciples to a peculiar clearing untouched by flames. The disciples were puzzled. The Buddha then told them a story.
A massive fire had once swept through a forest, consuming everything in its path. As animals fled in terror, a tiny bird, moved by deep compassion, could not bear to witness the suffering. Though it knew its wings were too small and its strength too meager to combat such destruction, it chose not to run.
Instead, it flew to a nearby stream, dipped its feathers in the water, and returned to sprinkle droplets over the flames. It repeated this — again and again — tirelessly, fearlessly, and without concern for success. What seemed like a futile act was, in truth, an expression of boundless courage and love.
Touched by the bird’s unwavering determination, the gods were moved. They sent rain from the heavens to extinguish the blaze. The forest was saved, and life returned.
The Buddha looked at his disciples and said: “That little bird… was me. And the very spot we now stand on is where the fire once raged. Because of the bird’s selfless vow and actions, no blaze has ever touched this place again.”
A shared truth across East and West
You might think — what does a Western movie star have in common with an Eastern sage? In truth, their stories convey the same message: When compassion, humility, and goodness are lived sincerely, they have a profound, even miraculous impact. Don’t you agree?
Translated by Katy Liu and edited by Laura Cozzolino
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