Awakening in the Morning

As life has begun to show some semblance of order and my thoughts have begun to become more focused, I have recalled those simple things that gave me equanimity.  In times of greater spiritual peace, as I would awake each morning, I would turn my head to look out of the window.  I would enjoy the rays of the sun as they passed through the leaves of the Panax Trees.  I would silently repeat to myself,

            “I awake in the morning and I smile,

            I have a wonderful day before me,

            I vow to live each moment fully,

            I vow to treat all living beings with kindness and compassion.”

For me, this simple verse made the beginning of each day more joyful.