In the gentle light of this new dawn, we come together in stillness, grounded in wisdom of the Dhammapada, chapter 12, verse 164.

Let us recite:

"Like the bamboo, may we not produce fruits of self-destruction,
From perverted views, may we be liberated,
In the teachings of the Noble and Righteous Ones, may we find refuge,
Guidance and wisdom, may we seek, not scorn.

In the face of ignorance, may patience be our companion,
In the grip of arrogance, may humility be our guard,
In our actions, words and thoughts, may compassion guide us,
In the teachings of the Perfected Ones, may we find solace.

Let us not scorn the knowledge that leads to liberation,
For the bamboo bears fruit only to fall,
Engulfed by the flames of ignorance, it meets its self-destruction,
May we learn and grow, not fall like the bamboo.

In the teachings of the Buddha, may we find our path,
In the wisdom of the Dharma, may we find our truth,
In the fellowship of the Sangha, may we find our strength,
In the light of wisdom, may our ignorance be dispelled.

May we cultivate a heart of understanding,
A mind of love, a life of non-harm,
In the wisdom of the Perfected Ones, may we find our liberation,
In the teachings of the Noble and Righteous Ones, may we find peace."

Now let us conclude with our mantra for the day, to be carried in our hearts and minds:

"May I learn and grow, not fall like the bamboo."

May this mantra remind us of the wisdom of the Perfected Ones and guide us in our journey through the day. May we live with mindfulness, compassion and understanding, for the benefit of all beings.