Invoking the Ancestors

I begin my days with sitting meditation, a time to be with myself, my mind, my body. It's a few minutes to be still and experience what arises.

This classic Tibetan Buddhist text asks for blessings from the lineage of humans who have gone before me, recognizing that life is a journey with glimpses of insight along the way, one person helping another. It sets my intention and reminds me to be open to the unknown.

The Four Dharmas of Gampopa 

Tibetan Source

Grant your blessings so that my mind may be one with the dharma.

Grant your blessings so that dharma may progress along the path.

Grant your blessings so that the path may clarify confusion.

Grant your blessings so that confusion my dawn as wisdom.

Nalanda Translation Committee

[Note: "dharma" could be translated as truth, or teachings.]