May I become at all times, both now and forever: a protector for those without protection; a guide for those who have lost their way; a ship for those with oceans to cross; a bridge for those with rivers to cross; a sanctuary for those in danger; a lamp for those without light; a place of refuge for those who lack shelter; and a servant to all in need.
All the suffering in the world comes from seeking pleasure for oneself. All the happiness in the world comes from seeking pleasure for others.
It is not possible to control all external events; But, if I simply control my mind what need is there to control other things?
If the problem can be solved why worry? If the problem cannot be solved worrying will do you no good.
Whatever happens, I will not let my cheerfulness be disturbed. Being unhappy won't get me anywhere and will dissipate all my goodness. Why be unhappy about something if you can change it? And if you can't, how will being unhappy help?
It is natural for the immature to harm others. Getting angry with them is like resenting a fire for burning.
All those who are unhappy in the world are so as a result of their desire for their own happiness. All those who are happy in the world are so as a result of their desire for the happiness of others.
As long as space abides and as long as the world abides, so long may I abide, destroying the sufferings of the world.
How wonderful will it be when all beings experience each other as limbs on the one body of life.
We are all slaves of our own actions. Why be angry with anyone else?
Instead of trying to cover the whole world with leather, put on some sandals.
If you can solve your problem, what is the need of worrying? If you cannot solve it, what is the use of worrying.
Unruly beings are as unlimited as space They cannot possibly all be overcome, But if I overcome thoughts of anger alone This will be equivalent to vanquishing all foes. Where would I possibly find enough leather With which to cover the surface of the earth? But (wearing) leather just on the soles of my shoes Is equivalent to covering the earth with it. Likewise it is not possible for me To restrain the external course of things; But should I restrain this mind of mine What would be the need to restrain all else?
May the pain of every living creature be completely cleared away. May I be the doctor and the medicine and may I be the nurse for all sick beings in the world until everyone is healed.
All the harm, fear, and suffering in the world are caused by attachment to the self: Why should I hold on to this great demon?
All the joy the world contains Has come through wishing happiness for others. All the misery the world contains Has come through wanting pleasure for oneself.
May those whose hell it is to hate and hurt be turned into lovers bringing flowers.
There is nothing to fear other than my mind.
Those desiring to escape from suffering hasten right toward suffering. With the very desire for happiness, out of delusion they destroy their own happiness as if it were an enemy
May I be a light for those in need of light. May I be a bed for those in need of rest. May I be a servant for those in need of service, for all embodied beings.
Those who have no mental vigilance, Though they may hear the teachings, ponder them or meditate, With minds like water seeping from a leaking jug, Their learning will not settle in their memories.
All happiness comes from the desire for others to be happy.
May I be like a guard for those who are protectorless, A guide for those who journey on the road. For those who wish to go across the water, May I be a boat, a raft, a bridge.
The source of all happiness lies in thinking of others.
What need is there to say more? The childish work for their own benefit, The Buddhas work for the benefit of others. Just look at the difference between them.
