From: The Dalai Lama Global Vision Summit: The Power of CompassionPresented by Lion’s Roar and Tibet House USSession: Pamela Ayo Yetunde – Talk
"may I become at all times, both now and forever, a
protector for those without protection, a guide for those who have lost their
way, a ship for those with oceans to cross, a bridge for those with rivers to
cross, a sanctuary for those in danger, a lamp for those without light. A place of
refuge for those who lack shelter and a servant to all in need."
Again, this list of vows is attributed to the Dalai Lama. And so is this quote. If I
have any understanding of compassion and the practice of the bodhisattva
path, it is entirely on the basis of this text that I presented. The text he is
referring to is The Way of the Bodhisattva, by Shantdieva. And I'll return to this
text later.
So I hang the banner at the gateway to my dwelling as a commitment to
provide a hospitable and healing place where I live to whomever enters.
