beginnings

"in the beginning,
all things are hopeful.
we prepare ourselves
to start anew.
though we may be intent on
the magnificent journey ahead,
all things are contained
in this first moment:

our optimism
our faith
our resolution
our innocence

In order to start,
we must make a decision.
This decision is a commitment
to daily self-cultivation.
We must make a strong connection
to our inner selves.
Outside matters are superfluous.
Alone and naked,
we negotiate all of life's travails.
Therefore, we alone
must make something of ourselves,
transforming ourselves
into the instruments for
experiencing the essence of life."

Deng Ming Dao