the meaning of thanksgiving

the meaning of thanksgiving

we aspire in this lifetime

to embody the love and compassion

of Avalokiteśvara.

we take many vows

along this path

only to ignore them

or not break them knowingly.

without intending to do harm

we also do much harm indeed,

for we live in this house

of frailty and impermanence.

the reason we give pause

and rest in our appreciation,

is that others have helped us

along this path,

with love, support, guidance

and most of all unconditional compassion.

family and friends who walk

this crooked path together,

point out the potholes

and sharp turns to protect us.

may we all rejoice in our family

of seven billion people today,

and know that each one of us

is special, and deserving

of the same love that we aspire towards.

Wonji Dharma