The Way

The way is the eightfold noble path.

The truth is the four noble truths.

The Master is free from craving

and has eyes to see.

This is the right way,

the way that leads to liberation,

the way that opens your eyes,

the way to follow.

The one who knows this path

outwits sorrow.

It is you who must make the effort;

the awakened only show the way.

Who will liberate your own mind,

if not yourself?

"Everything arises and passes away".

Understand this and find the shining way.

"Conditioned existence is sorrow".

Understand this and go beyond sorrow.

"Conditioned existence is illusionary".

Understand this and know clarity.

Act while you still possess your health.

Arise now! The fool procrastinates,

indulging in fantasy.

Act now! Find the path of peace.

Know words of peace.

Know thoughts of peace.

Harm no one.

By these three ways

you will find the Way

and walk among the Awakened.

Sit in the world,

sit in sorrow.

Sit in mindfulness,

sit in joy.

You choose your own seat.

Choose the one where wisdom grows.

~The Dhammapada, verses 273-282

(Karma Yonten Senge translator)

* Remember, Mara is not the Buddhist version of Satan. Mara is your own anger, greed, delusion, inertia, fear, and unwillingness to act.