Buddhist Poem

Traditionally read at Buddhist weddings.

Unlimited Friendliness
This is what should be done by the man who is wise,
who seeks the good, and who knows the meaning of the place of peace.
Let him be strenuous, upright, and truly straight, without conceit of self,
easily contented and joyous, free of cares;
let him not be submerged by the things of the world;
let him not take upon himself the burden of worldly goods;
let his senses be controlled; let him be wise but not puffed up,
and let him not desire great possessions even for his family.
Let him do nothing that is mean or that the wise would reprove.
May all beings be happy and at their ease!
May they be joyous and live in safety!
All beings, whether weak or strong—omitting none—in high, middle, or low
realms of existence,
small or great, visible or invisible, near or far away, born or to be born–
may all beings be happy and at their ease! Let none deceive another, or
despise any being in any state!
Let none by anger or ill-will wish harm to another!
Even as a mother watches over and protects her child, her only child,
so with a boundless mind should one cherish all living beings,
radiating friendliness over the entire world, above, below, and all around
without limit.
So let him cultivate a boundless good will towards the entire world,
uncramped, free from ill will or enmity.
Standing or walking, sitting or lying down, during all his waking hours,
let him establish this mindfulness of good will, which men call the highest
state!
Abandoning vain discussions, having a clear vision, free from sense
appetites,
he who is made perfect will never again know rebirth.
~ The Buddha