The Songs, Compositions, Poetry and Performances of Supreme Master Ching Hai (vegan), Part 15 of a Multi-part Series

“Reality or illusion, it’s just a game to pass some time All sorrows have actually taken flight A stone at rest contemplates its dreams and fantasies All watercourses shall return to the clear sea O easy white clouds, carefree forever still Floating in the vast firmament On earth, a new rose blossom And on the lips of humankind, a smile since all of origin”

Each of us has a homeland, a country. And we all wish that homeland to be in peace and happiness, hoping to meet each other one day in the spirit of brotherhood, and living in safety and joy.

“The mountains and forests outstretch their hands to connect with the distant sea. We form a great circle to unite our Nation. On the vast land, we brothers and sisters return Upon meeting, our joy as mighty as the sweeping sandstorm In the immense sky! With hands joined, we form the great circle connecting beloved Việt Nam (Âu Lạc).

Flags join with the wind, days join with nights in happiness. The same stream of blood links humanity’s hearts Rebuilding humanity – love, for tomorrow Cities join in overflowing excitement The deceased join the sacred Divine into life And smiles blossom on joy-filled lips.

From north to south, hands are joined From desolate fields we cross all the mountains and hills We traverse steep streams, climb over mountain passes, From humble villages to bustling cities, hands are joined. The blue ocean and gleaming rivers join in a circle of death and life.”

“Autumn’s tender steps have softly returned Delicate mist gently shrouds her dress Fragrant breeze adorns the rustling path Dancing flowers stir the moonlight Her feet lithesome and buoyant Unfamiliar as an ancient myth Illusive as a dream No place can halt Autumn’s steps Even the doorway to a maiden’s chamber Invisible footprints know not of gates Graceful feet tread ever lightly.

Placid stream whispers tender melodies like poetry Declaring moments of nameless sorrow Even a non-poet can be receptive No heart could be closed to the Autumn Muse When all sentimental notes are played She arrives softly in her gossamer dress Bow glides nimbly on the strings Who says Autumn awakens poetry? I say Autumn kindles the flame of amour. It’s Autumn that conveys affection For Autumn is Poetry’s sibling.”

The preaching of Truth is a raft that takes us back to the Shore of Awakening, like a vehicle that takes us out of the worldly house burning in the flame of greed, desire, anger, and unawareness. Upon hearing of such wonders, people in this mundane realm could be thinking that it is mere deception, but the pledge of a Bodhisattva (Saint) is to save beings regardless of unfortunate ignorance. One day, the blessing rain shall fall evenly on humanity, and the seed of compassion shall be absorbed and thrive all around the planet.

“People say that I’m bewitching you. Yes, yes, yes! It’s true. I’d like to charm the Prince back to the God-Kingdom, For what is the good Of dragging out your weary existence on this humiliating planet While wasting away your bewildered soul. Come, my precious! - The lost Angel in this dusty realm Come, let me take your hand To the faraway land To the future resplendent, remote Where the dust at your heels is glittering gold And the ground under your feet is pure jewel-filled gladness.

Once you know the wonder of it You’ll “die” with joy. And this low-vibe world That you so praise and enjoy Will quietly disappear from your heart, Melt in the vastness And empowering power Of true Love Splendor. Oh, My dear Soul All this and more I you promise! I promise you! ...”