“In the presence of Sangha, in the light of Dharma,
in oneness with Buddha – may my path
to complete enlightenment benefit everyone!”
In this passing moment, karma ripens
and all things come to be.
I vow to choose what is:
If there is a cost, I choose to pay.
If there is a need, I choose to give.
If there is a pain, I choose to feel.
If there is sorrow, I choose to grieve.
When burning — I choose heat.
When calm — I choose peace.
When starving — I choose hunger.
When happy — I choose joy.
Whom I encounter, I choose to meet.
What I shoulder, I choose to bear.
When it is my death, I choose to die.
Where this takes me, I choose to go.
Being with what is — I respond to what is.
This life is as real as a dream;
the one who knows it cannot be found;
and, truth is not a thing — Therefore I vow
to choose THIS dharma entrance gate!
May all Buddhas and Wise Ones
help me live this vow.
The Longing in Between: Sacred Poetry from Around the World (A Poetry Chaikhana Anthology) Edited by Ivan M. Granger
