In Every Breath

In the monastery, before the meal,

we pause in stillness

and acknowledge this food

as a gift of the universe—

born of earth and sky,

sun and rain,

and the quiet, tireless hands of labor.

We recognize the harmony

that brought it to us:

soil in balance with seed,

time in balance with patience,

effort in balance with care.

Nothing here stands alone.

As we receive this nourishment,

may we live in ways

that transform us gently,

that elevate the mind without pride,

and free the soul without escape.

Let this meal remind us

to walk in balance—

between taking and giving,

between silence and action,

between self and all beings.

Grant us understanding

to see clearly,

love to act wisely,

and presence to meditate upon

in every breath,

long after the bowl is empty.