A Gatha on Observing Impermanence Like Spring

Fearing their wealth is too little, they spare no expense on journeys of a thousand miles. When impermanence arrives, they die as strangers in a foreign land.

Though they accumulate much treasure, the time to close their eyes comes. All their lifelong efforts leave them empty-handed at death.

Even if they possess immeasurable riches, they cannot ransom their own lives.

To attain the rank of a general or minister, they care not that countless bones lie bleaching. Where are the generals and ministers now? Only barren hills and graves remain.

A hero like Xiang Yu saw his hegemony vanish in an instant. The world-conquering Qin Shi Huang could not enjoy a life as enduring as metal or stone.

Though they rely on their power and influence, they cannot avoid the severing of their precious lives.

Beauties are deeply loved—the Tang emperor had three thousand favorites. They thought themselves supremely blessed, yet they were but flowers in the sky.

When great calamity strikes, a fair face becomes a source of disaster. For the sake of his empire, the emperor had his beloved Yang Guifei slain before his horse.

Had Yang Guifei lived long, would her beauty have faded and his love waned?

To serve others with one's looks—how long can such favor last? Better to lack a jade-like countenance, and thus avoid inviting calamity.

What is love and affection? Merely a sensation. The worldly cling to it, and thus revolve in the six realms of rebirth.

The Bodhisattva, skillful and ingenious, teaches people to practice prajna. Do not seek worldly dharmas, for that is deluded thinking.

One should learn the Four Noble Truths and cut off self-view as soon as possible. Not falling into the three lower realms—this is the most practical goal.

Cultivate merit and virtue abundantly—these are provisions for the path. Let the six senses have few entanglements, and let the mind often contemplate the Dharma.

Deeply cultivate dhyana and samadhi; through contemplation, wisdom arises. The Bodhisattva's mind is earnest, and disciples are ever grateful.

One should strive diligently, so as not to betray the Bodhisattva's kindness. May we soon attain liberation, learn the Buddha's way, and deliver sentient beings.