To me, JP's lyrical depth in Awake is totally unmatchable, I just can't figure out how he could end up writing those SC lyrics. I also love JM lyrics, and do think BAI is really good though it can't match songs like Lifting Shadows Off A Dream or Trial of Tears (absolute masterpieces to me).
I truly love the verses "wisdom revealed as I unlearn to learn", and the whole theme of the song is very interesting. BAI is something tied to the asian concept of spirituality, and I think this is the reason why many people just don't get it/like it. If you are familiar to asian philosophy (indian - chinese - japanese), you know why the theme of coming full circle is so important. This is the reason why, in karate, after the black belt you have the white belt again. After you have experienced it all, you must face a new beginning, and achieve new purity. To do this you must reach a state of enlightment, you must tear apart the veil of Maya and mentally break down all the mirrors of illusion. Then everything you know evolves into something different, as the many different aspects of reality (or techniques, speaking of martial arts) become one. It's about freeing your mind and achieving completeness.
I really like the fact that JM decided to write something that has to do with his origins and maybe with his own way of thinking and living. I think he told us something personal and intimate, and I feel like thanking him for this.