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In several cases, i have taken the liberty of adapting, contributing to, shortening, and/or expanding these gathas from their original texts in an effort to more closely support our practices, specifically as relates to our Center, but at times more broadly to address contemporary Western customs, and culture. The word “flossing,” for instance, did not appear in the original gatha entitled “Brushing Your Teeth.”
Ten Noble Breaths
Breathing in, i know i am breathing in
Breathing out, i know i am breathing out
In, out.
Breathing in, my breath grows deep
Breathing out, my breath grows slow
Deep, slow.
Breathing in, i feel calm
Breathing out, i feel at ease
Calm, ease.
Breathing in, i smile
Breathing out, i release
Smile, release.
Breathing in, i dwell in the present moment
Breathing out, i know it is a wonderful moment.
Present moment, wonderful moment.
A Contemplation Before Eating
We are encouraged to be mindful when we eat, to be in touch with the preciousness of those around us, as well as the food. When the bell is invited, please meditate on these contemplations.
This food is a gift of the universe
the earth, the sky, and much hard work.
May we be worthy to receive it.
May we transform unskillful states of mind, especially the habit of eating without awareness or moderation.
May we take only foods that help nourish us and prevent illness.
We accept this food in order to continue along a path of understanding, peace, compassion, and loving-kindness.
All over the world there are those who struggle to survive. We accept this food that we may have the strength to help transform the energies that perpetuate such suffering.
Inviting the Bell (First Version)
Body speech and mind in perfect oneness,
i send my heart along with the sound of this bell.
May the listeners awaken from forgetfulness,
And transcend all anxiety and sorrow.
Inviting the Bell (Second Version)
May the sound of this bell penetrate
deeply into the cosmos.
In even the darkest spots,
may living beings hear it clearly.
May their suffering cease.
Inviting the Bell (Third Version)
May the sound of this bell penetrate
deeply into the cosmos
So that beings, even those in dark places,
May hear it and be free from birth and death.
May all beings realize awakening
and find their true home.
Listening to the Bell (First Version)
Listen, listen, this wonderful sound
Brings me back to my true home.
Listening to the Bell (Second Version)
Listening to the bell, i feel my afflictions
begin to dissolve.
My mind is calm, my body relaxed,
a smile is born on my lips.
Following the bell’s sound,
my breathing guides me back
to the safe island of mindfulness.
In the garden of my heart,
The flower of peace blooms beautifully.*
*To me, these last two lines are exceptionally beautiful and can be used as a practice all by themselves.
Opening the Sutra
The Dharma is deep and lovely.
We now have a chance to see,
Study, and practice it.
We vow to realize its true meaning.
Dedicating the Merit (Closing the Sutra)
Reciting the sutras, practicing the way of awareness
Gives rise to benefits without limit.
We vow to share the fruits with all beings.
We vow to offer tribute to parents, teachers,
Friends, and numerous beings
Who give guidance and support along the path.
Waking Up
Waking up this morning, i smile.
Twenty-four brand new hours are before me.
i vow to live fully in each moment
and to look at all beings with the eyes of compassion.
Brushing Your Teeth
Brushing my teeth, flossing, and rinsing my mouth
i vow to speak purely and lovingly.
When my mouth is fragrant with right speech
A flower blooms in the garden of my heart.
Lighting a Candle
Lighting this candle,
Offering the light to countless Buddhas,
The peace and the joy i feel
Brighten the face of the Earth.
Sitting
Sitting here
Is like sitting under a bodhi tree.
My body is mindfulness itself
Free from all distractions.
Adjusting Meditation Posture
Feelings come and go
Like clouds in a windy sky
Conscious breathing
Is my anchor.
Greeting Somone
(especially when bowing)
A lotus for You,
A Buddha to be.
Using the Telephone
Words can travel thousands of miles
May my words create mutual understanding and love.
May they be as beautiful as gems,
As lovely as flowers.
