In Praise of the Awakening Mind

Nothing new will be said here, nor have I any skill in composition. Therefore, I do not imagine that I can benefit others.

I have done this to perfume my own mind.

While doing this, the surge of my inspiration to cultivate what is skillful increases.

Moreover, should another, of the very same humours as me, also look at this, then he too may benefit from it.

This opportune moment is extremely hard to meet. Once met, it yields the welfare of mankind.

If the advantage is neglected now, how will this meeting come again?

– Santideva, Bodhicaryavatara

Crosby, Skilton. The Bodicaryavatara, Windhorse, 2002.