gratitude

one heart grace

as we make ready to eat this food

we remember with gratitude

the people, the animals, plants, insects,

creatures of the sky and sea

air and water, fire and earth,

all turning in the wheel of living and dying,

whose joyful exertion

not separate from ours

provide sustenance this day.

may we, with the blessing of this food

join our hearts

to the one heart of the world

in awareness and love,

and may we together with everyone

realize the path of awakening,

and never stop making effort

for the benefit of others.

buddhist blessing