Buddhism Without A Book Poem by Joanne Kyger

Well, you had to find it some
where another person passed simplicity
on to you, the practice of some syllables
the position of a seated body and you believe
a lineage of recognition of `mind'

not perfect, but intimate
with suffering
and the futility of maintaining
those troublesome states
of fear and hate

'Try this
Lift the corners of your mouth slightly
and take three breaths
this is known as mouth yoga' ( * Yvonne Rand)

It has nothing to do with smiling
It has nothing to do with happiness


MARCH 7, 2003