We all know that intention is key to the path of liberation. But this year, I think we need an even stronger word. A timely word might be “vow.” For some, “vow” might sound too religious and so might not resonate. But vow has a more universal meaning. The Dalai Lama in his ever-inclusive way, explains that “my religion is kindness” meaning he vows to embody kindness. A vow of kindness applies to all wisdom paths.
In 2009, I traveled to Taiwan to see my teacher, Master Sheng-yen for the last time. He passed away while I was there. I was able to stay at his meditation center for his funeral. At the funeral site, a statement of his was posted: “Although some day this universe may perish, my vows are eternal.”
These words touched me deeply. I thought to myself, really? Will this universe someday perish? Of course I know that everything is impermanent. But do I really know that even the universe is impermanent? Nevertheless, what struck me even more deeply was Master Sheng-yen’s understanding that vows are beyond time. To live as if our vows are eternal is to dedicate our lives to awakening and to being of benefit to all.
At Master Sheng-yen’s funeral all of us were invited to write our vows on pieces of paper cut in to the shape of leaves and attach them to a tree branch. What might you write on such a leaf? What might you want to express as a vow going forward?
Some examples might be; I vow to meet hatred with kindness. I vow to find peace in my heart, no matter the conditions. I vow to practice gratitude and generosity, patience and resolve. I vow to know enoughness. I vow to find peace within and to share this peace with all beings everywhere. Whatever vows you choose, just make sure they are expansive enough for this whole vast suffering wondrous world.
In this time of celebrated cruelty (there is no softer word for this period), greed, and delusion, our vows need to be steadfast. Our vows are supported by the structure of a dedicated daily practice beneath us. To stay steady and open hearted we need the framework of ethics, samadhi, and wisdom as our allies on the noble eightfold path. Let’s begin this new year with fresh and alive vows. To echo Master Sheng-yen’s teaching, even though all things are impermanent, the path of awakening is ever-present.
It is a privilege to be on this path with you, at this time and in this place.
With all my love,
Narayan