“Bodhisattva Vow.”

Bodhisattva Vow.

As I develop the awakening mind
I praise the Buddha as they shine
I bow before you as I travel my path
To join your ranks, I make my full time task.

For the sake of all beings I seek
The enlightened mind I know I’ll reap
Respect to Shantideva and all the others
Who brought the dharma for sisters and brothers.

I give thanks for this world as a place to learn
And for this human body I know I’ve earned
And my deepest thanks to all sentient beings
Without them there would be no place to learn what I’m seeing.

There’s nothing here that’s not been said before
But I put it down now so I’ll be sure
To solidify my own views and I’ll be glad if it helps
Anyone else out too.

If others disrespect me or give me flack
I’ll stop and think before I react
Knowing they’re going through insecure stages
I’ll take the opportunity to exercise patience.

I’ll see it as a chance to help the other person
Nip it in the bud before it can worsen
A change for me to be strong and sure
As I think on the Buddhas who have come before.

As I praise and respect the good they’ve done
Knowing only love can conquer in every situation
We need other people in order to create
The circumstances for the learning we’re here to generate.

Situations that bring up our deepest fears
So we can work to release them until they’re cleared
Therefore, it only makes sense
To thank our enemies despite their intent.

The Bodhisattva path is one of power and strength
A strength from within to go the length
Seeing others are as important as myself
I strive for a happiness of mental wealth.

With the interconnection we share as one
Every action we take affects everyone
So in deciding for what a situation calls
There is a path for the good for all.

I try to make every action for the highest good
With the altruistic wish to achieve Buddha-hood
So I pledge here before everyone who’s listening
To try to make my action for the good of all beings.