Remember
always that you are just a visitor here, a traveller passing through.
Your stay is but short and the moment of your departure unknown. None
can live without toil and a craft that provides your needs is a
blessing indeed. But if you toil without rest, fatigue and weariness
will overtake you and you will be denied the joy that comes from
labour´s end.
Speak quietly and kindly and be nor forward with either opinions or advice If you talk much this will make you deaf to what others say and you should know that there are few so wise that they can not learn from others Be near when help is needed but far when praise and thanks are being offered.
Take small account of might , wealth and fame, for they soon pass and are forgotten. Instead nurture love within you and strive to be a friend to all. Truly compassion is a balm for many wounds.
Treasure silence when you find it and while being mindful of your duties set time aside to be alone with yourself. Cast off pretence and self-deception and see yourself as you really are.
Despite all appearance no one is really evil. They are led astray by ignorance. If you ponder this truth always you will offer more light rather than blame and condemnation. You, no less than all beings, have Buddha Nature within. your essential mind is pure. Therefore when defilement causes you to stumble and fall, let not remorse nor dark fore-Bonding cast you down. Be of good cheer and with this understanding, summon strength and walk on. Faith is like a lamp and wisdom it is that makes the flame burn bright. Carry this lamp always and in good time the darkness will yield and you will abide in light.
Written by the venerable (and rather witty) Shravasti Dhammika as a sort of Buddhist response to that odd bit of writing that turned up in the '60s: Desiderata.
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