In the gentle embrace of the morning light, we dedicate ourselves to wisdom and compassion.
In the presence of the Three Jewels, the Buddha, the Dharma, the Sangha, we reflect upon the teachings of the Dhammapada, the words of the Enlightened One.
He taught us, easy to do are things that are harmful, that lead us astray from the path of righteousness. Yet, it is these actions that cause suffering, that bind us to the cycle of birth, death and rebirth.
We acknowledge the allure of the unwholesome, the deceptive charm of the harmful, and with a heart full of courage and determination, we resolve to resist.
Exceedingly difficult to do are things that are good, beneficial, illuminating. Yet it is these virtuous deeds that lay the foundation of liberation, that guide us towards the cessation of suffering.
We recognize the challenge of the wholesome, the strenuous journey of the beneficial, and with a heart full of perseverance and compassion, we resolve to undertake.
As the sun rises, so does our commitment to the Eightfold Path. With right understanding, right thought, right speech, right action, right livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness, and right concentration, may we tread upon the path of goodness.
As the day unfolds, may we cultivate wisdom to differentiate between the beneficial and the harmful. May we have the strength to resist the easy and harmful, and the courage to undertake the difficult and beneficial.
In the face of adversity, may we remain anchored in the Dharma. In the face of temptation, may we stay rooted in the teachings of the Buddha. In moments of doubt, may we find solace in the Sangha.
In this moment of quiet contemplation, we set our intentions for the day, guided by the light of Dharma, fueled by the fire of compassion, and grounded in the wisdom of the Buddha.
May all beings be free from suffering, may all beings know peace, may all beings attain Nibbana.
In the name of the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha, we affirm our commitment to the beneficial and the good.
Let us carry this prayer in our hearts as we step into the day, "May I choose the beneficial over the easy, the good over the harmful."
May it be so.
