As we come upon Thanksgiving Day and come together for Thanksgiving dinner, let us be reminded of the Five Contemplations and be mindful and thankful of the food we eat:
1.This food is a gift of the whole universe, the Earth, the sky, numerous living beings and much hard work.
2. May we eat in mindfulness and gratitude, so as to be worthy to receive it.
3. May we transform our unskillful states of mind, especially our greed and learn to eat with moderation.
4. May we eat in such a way as to keep our compassion alive, reduce the suffering of living beings, and preserve our planet.
Insights...
While serving our food:
In this food I see clearly the presence of the entirer universe supporting my existence.
Before eating:
Beings all over the Earth are struggling to live. May we practice so that all may have enough to eat.
After the meal:
My plate is empty. My appetite is fulfilled. My heart is filled with gratitude for parents, teachers, friends, and all beings.
5. We accept this food so that we may nourish our brother and sisterhood, strengthen our Sangha and realize our ideal of serving living beings.
All verses above are taken from the Deer Park Monastery.
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