Nourishing Happiness

Sitting here in this moment, protected by the Sangha,

we see how fortunate we are.

We have been born human,

and encountered the Dharma.

The seed of bodhicitta has been watered, 

and we have the conditions to live in harmony in the Sangha.

The energy of the Sangha, the mindfulness trainings, and fine manners

are protecting and helping us not make mistakes,

so that unwholesome action does not take us on dark paths.

With kind spiritual friends, we are on the path of goodness,

illumined by the light of buddhas and bodhisattvas.

Although seeds of suffering are still in us 

in the form of afflictions and habit energies,

mindfulness can always manifest, helping us touch

what is wonderful within and around us.

We are grateful for our six senses:

our eyes that can see the blue sky, 

our ears that can hear the birds singing,

our nose that smells the scent of sandalwood, 

our tongue that tastes the nectar of the Dharma.

Our posture is stable, 

and our mind is one with our body. 

If there were not a World-Honored One,

if there were not the wonderful Dharma,

if there were not the Sangha,

we would not be so fortunate

to enjoy this Dharma happiness today.

We vow to cultivate and maintain our practice,

for our ancestors, family, future generations, and society. 

Our resources for practice are our own peace and joy. 

We vow to cultivate and nourish them by our daily mindfulness. 

In our society countless people are suffering,

drowning in sensual pleasure, jealousy, and hatred.

Aware of this situation, we are determined to practice 

to master the mental formations of craving and anger,

to train to be able to listen deeply and use loving speech 

in order to restore communication and create understanding, acceptance,

and love.

Just like the bodhisattvas, 

we vow to practice looking at everyone around us 

with the eyes of compassion and a heart of understanding.

We vow to listen with a clear mind and ears of compassion,

bringing peace and joy into the lives of others,

to lighten and alleviate the suffering of living beings.

I am aware that ignorance and wrong perceptions

can turn this world into a fiery hell.

I vow to walk always upon the path of transformation,

producing understanding and loving kindness,

and cultivating a garden of awakening.

Although there are birth, sickness, old age, and death,

now that I have a path of practice, I have nothing more to fear.

It is a great happiness to be alive in the Sangha 

and with the practice of mindfulness trainings and concentration,

to live every moment in stability and freedom;

to take part in the work of relieving others’ suffering,

the career of buddhas and bodhisattvas.

In each precious moment, I am filled with deep gratitude.

I bow before the World-Honored One.

Please bear witness to my wholehearted gratitude,

and embrace all beings with arms of great compassion.