SIMPLE MINDS

To get lost in the heavens
a simple mind is needed.
To see a garden in a single seed
the cloud in the rivers and the seas,
in the milk, the calf,
in the cud, the milk,
the lotus in the mud,
the rough leaf in the silk.
To get lost in the sky, to dare, to see!
softness under heavy crust
and suns in a spec of dust,
the kindness of the human heart,
at home everywhere.

ELEMENTAL

In rhythms flows the rain
wings of the wind
and fierce fire stirred
within us, clings here
to crusted clot of earth
awed features open
apparently unseen
here now and soon forgotten
A heart with whispers filled
stay put, stay still, stay clear!
Sparkling raindrops come
transparent reappear.

PATH PROSTATIONS

So much, so many!
eagerness  counts always.
one at the beginning, one in the middle,
one at the end -  111.111 prostrations!
Begin at the beginning -One!
Oh no, what have I  done?!
I’ve got to finish as I have  begun!

RICHES

What price would I put on a ray of sunlight,
How could I cash in a soft moonlight's beam,
When the heart is enjoined with the stars of the night,
and the old and the young,
dance, so fearless and bright ?

What would you give for the sways of the ocean,
How much to pay for such beauty's delight,
when the clouds take on the contours of dancers,
and the skies burn aglow chasing colours in flight?

What is it worth to see gardens in full bloom,
as the wind's breath caresses the flowers like toys,
how much to give for a landscape of dreams,
joined to silence of friends in the flow of their joy?

Riches indeed to hear birds singing Dharma
Riches receiving this love without measure,
Riches to dwell in a body that's treasure,
Hold the gaze of the Buddha, every step of the Way.